Women Face Higher Stroke Risk Compared to Men: Experts Say

New Delhi: Experts highlighted that women are at a higher risk of strokes than men due to factors like hormonal changes linked to pregnancy, oral contraceptives, and longer life expectancy. Stroke remains a major cause of disability and death globally, ranking as the third leading cause of death in women and accounting for more female deaths than male deaths, as per the American Stroke Association.

Dr. Atul Prasad, Principal Director and Head of Neurology at BLK-MAX Super Speciality Hospital, noted that several gender-specific factors elevate the stroke risk among women. He explained that hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, childbirth, oral contraceptive use, and menopause contribute significantly. These hormonal influences can lead to increased risk factors such as high blood pressure, one of the main triggers for strokes.

Further, other health conditions such as atrial fibrillation (an irregular heart rhythm) and environmental risks like pollution also play crucial roles in the higher incidence of strokes among women. Dr. Sumit Singh, Chief of Neurology at Artemis Hospitals, pointed out that women with migraines, particularly migraines with aura, have a heightened stroke risk, especially if they also smoke or use oral contraceptives. He also emphasized that preeclampsia, a pregnancy-related complication, can double the stroke risk even years after pregnancy, though it is rarely acknowledged as a contributing factor.

Women often exhibit atypical or less recognizable stroke symptoms, which can delay diagnosis and treatment, according to experts. Symptoms like fatigue, general weakness, confusion, disorientation, nausea, and vomiting are common among women but are often misinterpreted. Dr. Singh explained that while typical stroke symptoms like slurred speech, sudden weakness, and facial drooping are well-recognized, women’s symptoms are frequently disguised as dizziness, fatigue, nausea, or even hiccups, making timely diagnosis more challenging.

Though treatment and prevention strategies for ischemic stroke are largely the same for both genders, experts stressed the need for more gender-specific rehabilitation programs for women. Women tend to have worse outcomes, higher rates of depression, cognitive decline, and longer recovery times after strokes. Therefore, post-stroke care for women should include mental health support, social integration, and personalized physical rehabilitation.

To prevent strokes, both men and women are advised to manage blood pressure, control cholesterol levels, avoid smoking, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. However, Dr. Prasad urged women taking birth control pills or undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to regularly monitor their stroke risk. Women with a history of preeclampsia should also undergo long-term follow-up to manage their stroke risk effectively.