Experts Warn of Increasing Stroke Cases Among Middle-Aged Adults

Health experts in Kenya are raising serious concern over the growing number of stroke cases among middle-aged adults, a demographic previously less associated with the disease. According to research from leading public hospitals, a significant proportion of stroke patients are now aged 40–69 years — indicating that stroke is no longer just a disease of the elderly.
A prospective study involving 691 stroke patients at Kenyatta National Hospital and Moi Teaching & Referral Hospital found that up to 83% of stroke cases were in people aged 40 or older, with ischemic stroke being the most common type. The study also identified major risk factors in this age group, including hypertension (77%), smoking (16%), and diabetes (15%).
Experts point to lifestyle and demographic shifts as key drivers of this trend. According to the Stroke Association of Kenya, more young and middle-aged adults are experiencing hypertension, poor diet, physical inactivity, and unmanaged cardiovascular risk factors — all of which contribute to increased stroke risk. In addition, delayed emergency response and poor public awareness of stroke warning signs further worsen outcomes.
Health policy advisors are calling for urgent action: enhanced screening for hypertension and other stroke risk factors among adults, faster ambulance response systems, and broader public health education on recognizing stroke symptoms.