MercyOne wants to help stem the tide of stroke deaths in Eastern Iowa

A stroke occurs every 40 seconds in the United States, with high blood pressure being the primary risk factor. MercyOne Dubuque Stroke Care aims to reduce stroke incidence by raising awareness. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention statistics are staggering. Stroke is a leading global cause of death and disability, with 11.9 million new cases annually, and roughly 1 in 4 adults over the age of 25 will experience a stroke in their lifetime.

A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts. When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood and oxygen it needs, so brain cells die. Early stroke detection and treatment are vital to improving survival, minimizing disability and accelerating recovery times.

“1.9 million brain cells die every minute during a stroke. The longer the stroke is untreated, the worse the possible disability. This is why early detection and treatment are essential,” Shannon Pape, MercyOne Dubuque Stroke Coordinator, said.

Pape stresses the need to recognize the common warning signs of a stroke and the easy-to-remember acronym B.E. F.A.S.T. 

Key Stroke Awareness Statistics

• Incidence & Mortality: Approximately 795,000 people in the U.S. have a stroke annually. It is the 4th leading cause of death in the U.S.
• Global Impact: About 93.8 million people are living with the effects of a stroke worldwide.
• Risk Factors: High blood pressure is the #1 risk factor; nearly 80% of recurrent strokes can be prevented.
• Age Factor: Stroke risk doubles every 10 years after age 55, though cases are increasing in younger adults.
• Symptoms Awareness: While 93% recognize numbness, only 38% know all major symptoms and know to call 9-1-1 immediately.
• Gender and Race: Over half of stroke deaths occur in women. African Americans have almost double the risk of a first-time stroke compared to white people.
• Treatment Timing: Stroke treatment is a time-sensitive emergency where “time is brain.” Rapid EMS arrival is crucial, as the first 60 minutes are critical for preventing permanent damage.
• Anyone who thinks they might be at risk for a stroke can take this stroke risk assessment at MercyOne Stroke Care