Air pollution, high temperatures, and risk factors such as obesity and high blood pressure are driving global increases in stroke. Between 1990 and 2021, the number of people who had a new stroke rose by 70%, and the number who died from a stroke increased by 44%

Air pollution, high temperatures, and risk factors such as obesity and high blood pressure are driving global increases in stroke, research suggests.

Although stroke is very preventable and treatable, latest figures estimate there are 12 million cases and more than seven million deaths from stroke each year.

However, researchers say there are “tremendous opportunities” to alter the trajectory of stroke risk for the next generation, because so many risk factors can be addressed.

Between 1990 and 2021, the number of people who had a new stroke rose by 70%, and the number who died from a stroke increased by 44%, according to the findings.

Experts suggest this increase is due to both population growth and people living longer, as well as a substantial increase in people’s exposure to environmental and behavioural risk factors.

[https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laneur/article/PIIS1474-4422(24)00369-7/abstract](https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laneur/article/PIIS1474-4422(24)00369-7/abstract)