Teenagers with lower levels of mental ability may have a higher risk of experiencing a stroke before the age of 50, according to new research published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health. The study, conducted by researchers at the Gertner Institute for Epidemiology and Health Policy Research in Israel, followed 1.7 million young Israelis over a span of 25 years.
During the study, researchers found that adolescents with lower cognitive function were more likely to have an early-onset stroke compared to those with higher cognitive abilities. In fact, teenagers with low mental ability were three times more likely to have a stroke before 50, while those with medium mental ability had a 78% increased risk.
The study involved assessing various factors such as educational attainment, socioeconomic background, and mental abilities of participants aged 16-20. Tests were conducted to evaluate verbal instructions, problem-solving skills, mathematical abilities, concentration, and visual-spatial problem-solving. Participants were categorized into high, medium, and low levels of mental ability based on their test results.
After analyzing the data and controlling for influencing factors, researchers found a strong association between lower cognitive performance in adolescence and an increased risk of early-onset stroke. This highlights the importance of comprehensive assessments beyond traditional stroke risk factors in identifying individuals at higher risk of stroke.
While the study was observational and could not establish a cause-and-effect relationship, the findings suggest that cognitive performance could play a role in predicting stroke risk and guiding interventions. The researchers emphasized the need for further research to explore the impact of lifestyle factors such as smoking, physical activity, and diet on stroke risk among individuals with varying levels of cognitive abilities.
In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of considering cognitive performance in adolescence as a potential indicator of future stroke risk. By addressing health literacy, education, and health behaviors early on, individuals with lower cognitive abilities may receive timely interventions to prevent strokes and reduce the burden of long-term physical and psychological impairments associated with stroke.
