Stroke may be affecting people at a younger age according to US scientists.

The researchers believe that this may be due to a rise in risk factors such as diabetes, obesity and high cholesterol, it was reported in an online issue of Neurology. Study author Dr Brett Kissela, of the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine in Ohio and a Fellow of the American Academy of Neurology added: “Other factors, such as improved diagnosis through the increased use of MRI imaging may also be contributing.

Regardless, the rising trend found in our study is of great concern for public health because strokes in younger people translate to greater lifetime disability.” Dr Kissela advised that younger adults “should see a doctor regularly to monitor their overall health and risk for stroke and heart disease”.