Stroke In Singapore: Statistics, Causes, And Risk Factors

Statistics For Stroke In Singapore

Stroke or also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), is a medical condition that occurs when blood supply to the brain is disrupted. It can lead to damage to brain cells and potentially serious or life-threatening consequences. According to the Ministry of Health, stroke in Singapore is the fourth leading cause of death, with a prevalence of 4% among adults aged 50 years and above. It is the biggest cause of long term disability. Singapore Stroke Registry Report 2020 also stated that stroke accounted for 8% of deaths in Singapore.

What Causes Stroke?

Stroke can be caused by two main types of events:

1. Blocked Artery (Ischemic Stroke)

This is the most common type of stroke. It occurs when a blood vessel supplying the brain becomes blocked or narrowed, reducing blood flow. The blockage is often caused by a blood clot, which may form within the blood vessel (thrombus) or travel from another part of the body (embolus). The lack of blood flow results in a lack of oxygen and nutrients to the affected area of the brain, leading to cell damage and death.

2. Burst Artery (Hemorrhagic Stroke)

This type of stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and causes bleeding. The rupture may be due to the weakening of blood vessel walls (aneurysm) or high blood pressure that causes vessel rupture. The bleeding can damage surrounding brain tissue and increase pressure within the skull, leading to further injury.

What Are The Risk Factors For Stroke?

The risk factors of stroke in Singapore are similar to those observed globally. Some of the 

common risk factors are:

1. High cholesterol is a leading risk factor for stroke in Singapore. Data from the Singapore Stroke Registry Report 2020 stated that among stroke patients, 83% have high cholesterol in the year 2020.

2. Hypertension or high blood pressure is also one of the major risk factors for stroke in Singapore. 82% of stroke patients have high blood pressure in 2020. Uncontrolled hypertension can damage blood vessels over time, making them more prone to blockages or ruptures.

3. Diabetes is another significant risk factor for stroke. Individuals with diabetes have an increased risk of developing blood vessel damage and a higher likelihood of having other risk factors such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

4. Smoking is a modifiable risk factor for stroke. It contributes to the development of atherosclerosis or the hardening and narrowing of arteries and increases the risk of blood clots forming.

5. Atrial fibrillation or an irregular heart rhythm is a condition that can cause blood clots to form in the heart. If a clot travels to the brain, it can cause a stroke.

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