One in four people may have a stroke in their lifetime, says study
Data shows that one in four people may suffer a stroke in their lifetime. Furthermore, more than 80,000 people died as a result of stroke, as it is popularly known, in 2025, which makes stroke one of the main causes of death in Brazil and the world.
The numbers are from the 79th World Health Assembly, held in Switzerland between May 18 and 23, 2026. On that occasion, the World Health Organization (WHO) approved the entity's first resolution dedicated exclusively to stroke.
The decision establishes guidelines for countries to expand prevention actions, early diagnosis, emergency care and rehabilitation of patients affected by the situation, which currently represents the second leading cause of death in the world and one of the biggest causes of permanent disability.
According to data from the Civil Registry Transparency Portal, 85,857 people died as a result of the disease in 2025.
How does a cerebrovascular accident (CVA) happen?
Cerebral Vascular Accident (CVA), also known as Cerebral Vascular Accident (CVA) or popularly as stroke, happens when there is a change in cerebral blood flow, compromising circulation in a region of the brain, formed by the cerebrum, cerebellum and brain stem.
There are two main types of stroke. The most common is ischemic, which affects around 85% of cases. It occurs when there is interruption of blood flow to an area of the brain, and when diagnosed and treated early, it has great potential for reversing the consequences.
Hemorrhagic disease is more serious and can lead to coma. In most cases, it is caused by the rupture of small arteries resulting from high blood pressure or vascular malformations.
"Ischemic stroke is the most common, corresponding to around 80% of cases, while hemorrhagic strokes represent approximately 20%", explains neurosurgeon Dr. Orlando Maia, from Hospital Quali Ipanema.
Time is one of the most important factors for the success of stroke treatment, since the faster the patient receives specialized care, the greater the chances of recovery and the lower the risk of permanent sequelae.
Means of prevention
Stroke can be prevented by controlling the main risk factors, such as high blood pressure, obesity, physical inactivity, smoking, diabetes and high cholesterol, according to specialist Dr. Orlando Maia.
"A sedentary lifestyle is an important risk factor. Studies show that physically active people are around 33% less likely to suffer a stroke. More than a third of cases occur in individuals who do not practice physical activity regularly. The recommendation is to perform moderate exercise for 20 to 30 minutes, at least five times a week. In addition to strengthening the body, physical activity contributes to brain health", he highlights.
Stroke in increasingly younger people
The specialist also draws attention to the change in the profile of patients affected by the disease, with an increase in incidence among younger people. According to the World Stroke Organization (WSO), almost 2 million people between the ages of 18 and 49 suffer a stroke annually.
"Recently, the American Cardiology and Stroke Associations published new guidelines for the treatment of ischemic stroke, including specific recommendations for children and adolescents," he adds.
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Main warning signs of stroke
Dr. Orlando Maia also presents some of the main warning signs of stroke:
- Sudden mental confusion;
- Change in speech or difficulty understanding;
- Visual changes;
- Intense and sudden headache, with no apparent cause;
- Dizziness and loss of balance;
- Weakness, numbness or tingling in the face, arm or leg, especially on only one side of the body.
Source: CNN