KBRN, Manado: Stroke, a leading cause of disability and death in Indonesia, accounting for 11.2 percent of total disabilities and 18.5 percent of deaths, is increasingly affecting younger populations.

According to the 2023 Indonesian Health Survey, the prevalence of stroke has reached 8.3 per 1,000 people. This data also indicates that stroke, a catastrophic disease, is the third highest contributor to healthcare costs after heart disease and cancer, amounting to IDR 5.2 trillion in 2023.

While stroke is commonly associated with older adults, there has been a concerning rise in cases among younger individuals.

Dr. Jacub Pandelaki, SpRad(K) from Abdi Waluyo Hospital, outlined three primary reasons for this trend.

Firstly, he noted that case reporting has improved significantly due to the rapid dissemination of information.

"This is a good thing. Nowadays, any incident is almost immediately exposed," he said, as reported by rri.co.id.

Secondly, advancements in detection technology have made it easier to diagnose stroke, even in younger individuals.

The third and most significant factor is lifestyle. Dr. Jacub pointed out the stark contrast between modern and traditional diets.

"People today tend to consume more processed foods, often high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. Healthy food options are generally more expensive," he explained.

"Our lifestyles have changed dramatically. In the past, instant noodles were a rare treat. Now, fast food is readily available and typically fried. Boiling these foods would be healthier, but it's not as convenient."

Stroke is particularly prevalent among individuals with underlying conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol.

Therefore, Dr. Jacub recommends maintaining a healthy diet, getting enough rest, and engaging in regular physical activity. He also stressed the importance of regular medical check-ups, including laboratory tests and radiological examinations, to assess individual risk.

Radiological examinations such as CT scans, MRIs, and cerebral angiography play a crucial role in diagnosis and treatment, mainly through endovascular procedures or catheterization.

Strokes caused by blockages or bleeding require vastly different treatment approaches. Accurate diagnosis of stroke relies heavily on brain CT or MRI scans.

Delaying stroke treatment beyond the crucial three to six-hour window can lead to permanent brain damage and disability. ***