Why Women Are More Prone to Stroke

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel ruptures and causes bleeding within the brain. When blood flow is disrupted, brain cells begin to die due to a lack of nutrients. The longer the disruption, the more severe the damage. That’s why it’s crucial to seek emergency medical care at the first sign of a stroke.

Why Women Are at Higher Risk
Globally, women are more at risk of strokes or brain hemorrhages than men. Lifestyle irregularities and lack of awareness contribute to this increased vulnerability. Additionally, women face some unique risk factors. For instance, women between the ages of 20 and 39 are twice as likely to suffer a stroke as men of the same age. Yet, most women in this age group remain unaware of their risk.

Contributing Factors:
Depression: Increases stroke risk by 29%. Women with depression often smoke, are overweight, lead disorganized lifestyles, and avoid physical activity—all of which further increase the risk. To reduce the risk, it is essential to quit smoking and tobacco use, maintain a healthy weight, follow a disciplined routine, and engage in regular exercise.

Sleep Patterns: Both excessive and insufficient sleep raise stroke risk. Sleeping more than 10 hours a day can raise the risk by up to 63%. Adults should ideally sleep 7 hours per night. Those who snore during sleep are at even higher risk.

Migraines: Those who suffer from migraines are more likely to experience strokes, and women are more affected by migraines than men. Anyone with frequent migraines should consult a doctor and consider preventive medications.

Atrial Fibrillation: Symptoms include heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, and chest pain. This condition causes an irregular heartbeat, increasing the risk of blood clots, strokes, heart failure, and other complications. It raises stroke risk fivefold.

Anger and Aggression: People who are quick to anger or exhibit aggressive behavior tend to have thicker carotid artery walls, which is a risk factor for stroke.

Lupus and Birth Control Pills: Autoimmune diseases like lupus, along with the use of oral contraceptives, can heighten stroke risk.

High Blood Pressure: One of the leading causes of stroke. Excessive salt consumption among women often leads to uncontrolled blood pressure.

How to Lower Stroke Risk
Dedicate at least 40 minutes a day to walking or physical activity.

Research shows that walking at a normal pace for two hours a week can reduce stroke risk by 30%.

Brisk walking can reduce the risk by up to 50%.

—Dr. Haradhan Debnath, Professor, Department of Neurosurgery, Bangladesh Medical University