Brain Hemorrhage in 30s Linked to Hypertension and Smoking

Hypertension and Obesity: Major Causes of Brain Hemorrhage in 30-40s Men

A recent study conducted by Professor Park Yong-sook and his team from the Department of Neurosurgery at Chung-Ang University Hospital has identified key risk factors contributing to cerebral hemorrhage among men in their 30s and 40s.

△ Professor Park Yong-Sook [Photo by ⓒch.cauhs.or.kr]

The research revealed that hypertension, obesity, alcohol consumption, and smoking are the primary factors increasing the likelihood of cerebral hemorrhage in this demographic, with a particular emphasis on the increased risk of deep brain hemorrhages associated with these conditions.

The study analyzed data from 73 patients aged 30 to 50 who were admitted to the hospital for spontaneous cerebral hemorrhage between 2011 and 2021.

The research excluded patients with underlying conditions such as cerebral aneurysms, brain tumors, or arteriovenous malformations.

Among the subjects, 83.6% were men, and more than half were found to have obesity (BMI over 25 kg/㎡), a history of smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, hypertension, and hypercholesterolemia.

Significantly, 74% of the patients experienced hemorrhages deep within the brain, a condition strongly linked to hypertension. Such deep brain hemorrhages are associated with severe outcomes, including hemiplegia, aphasia, dementia, and other debilitating conditions.

The study also found that 60% of those who suffered from cerebral hemorrhage either died or were left in a state of severe disability, including being in a vegetative state.

Professor Park emphasized, “Our study highlights that hypertension, obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, and hypercholesterolemia are major risk factors for cerebral hemorrhage in young men. If a cerebral hemorrhage occurs at a young age, it can lead to decades of severe disability, impacting not only the patient but also their families.”

She further stressed the importance of proactive health management among younger populations, urging individuals to manage their blood pressure, maintain a healthy weight, quit smoking, and reduce alcohol consumption to prevent such life-threatening conditions.

This study underscores the need for greater awareness and proactive management of health risks in younger adults to prevent cerebral hemorrhage and its devastating consequences.

Editor 메디마스터
^{Provided by: Chung-Ang University Hospital}