The number of strokes occurring in people aged between 40 and 54 has risen sharply since 2000, according to a study by the Stroke Association.
The study found that in 2000, 4260 men in England aged between 40 and 54 were admitted to hospital due to strokes. This number rose to 6221 in 2014, a rise of approximately 46%. In women, the rates rose by 30%, from 3529 in 2000, to 4604 in 2014. Overall, the number of people aged between 20 and 64 who had stroke rose by 25% in the time period.
Jon Barrick, chief executive of the Stroke Association, said: 'These figures show that stroke can no longer be seen as a disease of older people. There is an alarming increase in the numbers of people having a stroke in working age. This comes at a huge cost, not only to the individual, but also to their families and to health and social care services.
The study also analysed the impact of strokes in the UK. It found that strokes cost the UK economy approximately £9 billion each year, while the impact on household incomes due to death and disability from strokes is over £1.3 billion each year.
Mr Barrick added: 'The simple truth is that we must do more to raise people's awareness of risk factors, to help prevent them from having a stroke. With many more stroke patients now receiving emergency medical treatment, we also need the right health and social care services available. People must have the support they need to make the best possible recovery and avoid having to cope for decades with the disabilities that stroke can bring.'
This month is Action On Stroke Month 2015. The event aims to raise awareness of risk factors associated with suffering from a stroke, such as poor diet and a lack of exercise.