A.L.I.Ce. Italia ODV raises the alarm: urgent screening needed for adults under 55
Stroke: not just an old age issue anymore
Stroke is still widely seen as a disease that only affects the elderly. But according to A.L.I.Ce. Italia ODV – the Italian association against stroke – this perception is dangerously outdated. Today, stroke in young adults, especially those aged 18 to 50, accounts for up to 15% of all cases, with a higher prevalence among women.
This growing phenomenon demands a change in approach: preventive screenings for those under 55 should become the new standard.
Data don’t lie: increasing trend in Europe and the U.S.
Recent research in both Europe and the United States confirms it: ischemic strokes among young adults are increasing. This rise is driven not only by classic risk factors (typically seen in older adults) but also by age-specific behaviors such as alcohol and drug abuse.
And here’s the most worrying part: younger stroke survivors are more likely to suffer long-term disability over their lifetime.
The main causes: lifestyle choices and genetics
As explained by Prof. Marina Diomedi, head of the Stroke Unit at Tor Vergata University Hospital in Rome and scientific board member of A.L.I.Ce. Italia ODV, one of the biggest problems is that young people underestimate the risks and rarely undergo medical checkups. Here are the leading risk factors:
High blood pressure and high cholesterol
Hypertension and hypercholesterolemia are often undiagnosed in young adults, yet they can silently lead to arterial plaque buildup and stroke.
Diabetes
More than 4 million Italians live with diabetes, including type 2 diabetes linked to obesity and unhealthy lifestyles. Excess blood sugar stiffens blood vessels and accelerates atherosclerosis, doubling the risk of stroke.
Smoking
Among young smokers, stroke risk is three times higher. For women, combining smoking with migraine with aura and oral contraceptives multiplies the risk even further.
Alcohol abuse
Binge drinking, common among youth, significantly raises the chance of both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke. Just one excessive drinking episode can trigger an acute event.
Drug use
Cocaine and amphetamines increase blood pressure and damage blood vessels, creating a perfect storm for blood clots and stroke.
Migraine with aura
In women under 45, this condition is an independent risk factor, which multiplies when combined with smoking, obesity, and contraceptives.
A call for early screening
A.L.I.Ce. Italia ODV is urging for stroke screenings for adults under 55, especially those with a family history or risky lifestyles. The message is clear: don’t wait for symptoms—by then, it may be too late.
Final thoughts
A cultural shift is needed: young stroke is no longer an exception. It’s a reality. Preventing it means raising awareness, promoting healthy habits and encouraging medical checkups early on.
FAQ
1. Is stroke in young people really that common?
Yes, it accounts for about 10–15% of all cases.
2. What are the early symptoms of stroke?
Sudden weakness, speech difficulty, blurred vision or loss of balance.
3. Is smoking really that dangerous?
Yes, it triples stroke risk in young adults.
4. Can migraines trigger stroke?
Yes, especially migraines with aura in young women.
5. Should healthy young adults get screened?
Yes, especially if they have risk factors or family history.
6. Does diabetes play a major role?
Definitely. It doubles the risk of stroke.
7. Can alcohol cause a stroke?
Yes, especially during episodes of binge drinking.
8. What about drug use?
It’s a major risk, especially cocaine and amphetamines.
9. Are women more vulnerable?
Yes, due to hormonal and lifestyle factors.
10. Are there specific screenings for stroke in young adults?
Not yet widespread, but A.L.I.Ce. Italia ODV calls for them to be implemented.
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