NHS: stroke hospital admissions among people over 50 years old have fallen by half

According to worrying NHS figures, the number of stroke victims in their fifties admitted to hospital has increased by more than 50% (55%) over the last 20 years.

NHS England data shows that stroke admissions will increase by 28% to 111137 in England from 87069 in 2004/05.

NHS England reported that admissions for people aged 50-59 had risen faster than any other age group (8,063 from 2004-05 to 12,533 by 2023-24). This is the largest increase of all age groups. Comparatively, the increase in admissions for people aged 60-69 was 42%, while those 70-79 saw a 25% increase.

NHS England said that these increases are a result of the UK’s ageing society and lifestyle factors affecting the cardiovascular health of the nation.

The service said that the increase in admissions for those aged 50-59 could also be due to factors such as better detection and reporting of hypertension, obesity and poor diet, and lack or exercise.

The NHS launched a major public awareness campaign based on the act “FAST” acronym to urge the public to immediately call 999 if they experience any of the three common stroke symptoms.

They may struggle to smile (“Face”), raise their arm (“Arms”) or speak clearly ( “Speech”)

The UK’s fourth leading cause of mortality is stroke, with 38,000 deaths per year.

Anyone can have a stroke at any age. However, those who are at higher risk include those over 50, those of Black or South Asian descent, and those with pre-existing conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes.

Dr David Hargroves is the NHS national clinical director and stroke consultant. He said that the significant increase in strokes across all age groups was worrying. This highlights the importance our new NHS campaign, which urges the public to call 999 at the first signs of stroke, whether it be a change in the face, arm, or speech.

The NHS has made great strides in stroke care and awareness. However, there is still much to be done to save lives and lessen their impact. It is vital to act FAST – whether a loved one, a friend or even a passing passerby dials 999 immediately.

Professor Sir Stephen Powis is the NHS national medical director. He said: “The increase in stroke admissions among people in their fifties shows that while strokes are more common among older adults, they do not only affect them. It is important that everyone knows the symptoms to watch out for and that they should dial 999 immediately.

There are many factors behind the alarming rise in strokes, but obesity, poor nutrition and lack of physical activity are all common causes. These can have a major impact on cardiovascular health, especially for those of working age who are in their fifties or sixties.