A new study found that older adults whose parents divorced when they were children are more likely to have a stroke later in life. The study, published in a journal called PLOS One, looked at over 13,000 people who were 65 years old or older.
60% higher risk of stroke for adults from divorced families
The study found that older adults whose parents divorced before they turned 18 have a 60% higher chance of having a stroke compared to those whose parents stayed together. This higher risk was still there even after the researchers considered other factors that can cause a stroke, such as depression, diabetes, and being alone.
Esme Fuller-Thomson, the study author from the University of Toronto, said, "It is extremely concerning that older adults who grew up in divorced families had 60% higher odds of stroke, even after excluding those who had been physically or sexually abused as children."
The study also said that the higher risk of stroke from parental divorce is just as serious as other known factors like being a man or having diabetes. The researchers didn’t say that divorce directly causes strokes, but they believe that divorce can lead to issues like depression, addiction, smoking, and obesity, which can increase the chances of having a stroke.
What is a stroke?
A stroke happens when part of the brain stops getting blood or when a blood vessel in the brain breaks. This cuts off oxygen and nutrients from the brain, causing damage that can lead to long-term problems, disabilities, or even death.
Doctors say it is important to recognise stroke symptoms quickly so a person can get help right away. Some common stroke signs are sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body, trouble speaking or understanding words, problems with vision, dizziness, or a severe headache. The acronym 'BE FAST' can help people remember the signs:
- B: Loss of balance
- E: Loss of vision in one or both eyes
- F: Drooping of one side of the face
- A: Weakness or numbness in one arm
- S: Slurred speech
- T: Time to call emergency services
The study was based on observation, meaning it could not directly prove that parental divorce causes stroke. However, the link between the two remains a serious concern, and further research is needed to understand the reasons behind it.