Which State Had The Most Deaths From Strokes In 2021?
When the blood supply to the brain is interrupted, a serious medical emergency known as a stroke can happen (via Mayo Clinic). This can occur as a result of a blocked artery or a brain bleed. Sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg (usually on one side of the body), difficulty speaking or understanding speech, sudden dizziness, and loss of balance or coordination are all symptoms of a stroke. If you notice any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately because time is of the essence when treating a stroke. Strokes can be fatal or result in long-term disability, so it is critical to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
High blood pressure, diabetes, and family history are risk factors for having a stroke. Smoking, obesity, and excessive alcohol use are all lifestyle factors that can also increase your risk of having a stroke. When treating a stroke, surgery to remove the blockage or bleed and clot-busting drugs are frequently used. Many stroke victims recover fully with prompt treatment. but some people may deal with persistent issues like memory loss, paralysis, and speaking difficulties. When it comes to a person's rehabilitation, the timing of medical treatment is crucial.
How are Americans affected by strokes?
According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about one in every six deaths from cardiovascular disease is due to a stroke. The number of people who die from strokes varies greatly between states. In 2021, Mississippi had the highest number of stroke deaths in the country per capita, with 57.8 deaths per 100,000 people. Delaware has the second highest number of deaths, with 56.8 deaths per 100,000 people, and Alabama had the third highest number with 54.9 deaths per 100,000 people. On the other side, New York and Massachusetts each had just over 25 deaths per 100,000 people in 2021, making them the states with the fewest stroke deaths in the country.
Mississippi and Alabama also have some of the highest poverty rates in the country (via U.S. News). This, combined with the lack of access to affordable healthcare, likely contributes to the high stroke death rates. Both states also have large populations of Black Americans, who are twice as likely to suffer a stroke as white Americans. While these factors are important, there is still more research that needs to be done to determine why stroke deaths are twice as common in some states than in others, and how to reduce the number of stroke deaths in the entire country.