A new study reveals that adults whose parents divorced while they were younger are at a significantly higher risk of suffering from a stroke at the age of 65 or older. According to the research, individuals who experienced parental divorce during childhood are approximately 61% more likely to be diagnosed with a stroke compared to those whose parents stayed married.
The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Toronto, Tyndale University, and the University of Texas at Arlington, analyzed data from over 13,000 older Americans. Among these participants, 14% had experienced parental divorce during their childhood, while one in nine individuals with a history of parental divorce later suffered from a stroke. In contrast, only one in 15 adults whose parents remained married throughout their lives were diagnosed with a stroke.
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off, leading to the death of brain cells and potentially life-threatening complications such as totaled vision or paralysis. Risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, atrial fibrillation, smoking, and poor diet. Additionally, experiencing high levels of stress from witnessing parent splits can increase the likelihood of a stroke.
Lead author Mary Kate Schilke noted that even after accounting for known risk factors like smoking, physical inactivity, lower income, education, diabetes, depression, and low social support, individuals with divided parents still had 61% higher odds of experiencing a stroke. The study team suggested that parental divorce may contribute similarly to well-known risk factors such as diabetes and depression, which are also linked to increased stroke risk.
Prof. Esme Fuller-Thomson emphasized the need for further research to understand the mechanisms behind this association. She stated, “While these types of survey-based studies cannot establish causality, we hope that our consistent findings will inspire others to examine the topic.”
The study was published in the journal PLOS One and highlights that while childhood abuse was excluded from the analysis, even those who experienced safe and nurturing childhood environments were at an increased risk of stroke if their parents had divorced.
Other childhood difficulties such as emotional abuse, neglect, mental illness, and domestic violence also did not strongly link to stroke risk in later life. Researchers believe the connection between parental divorce and stroke may be influenced by both biological factors (like stress hormone levels) and social factors (such as mental health).
Prof. Schilke added, “From a biological perspective, experiencing a parent split during childhood could lead to prolonged high levels of stress hormones. These hormones might have lasting effects on the developing brain and affect how individuals respond to stress later in life.”
In light of these findings, family history and risk factors may play a role in improving stroke prevention strategies for older adults. Additionally, understanding the mechanisms behind this connection could help inform better health education and support programs.
To recognize a stroke, healthcare professionals can use the FAST method:
– F = Face drooping or numbness
– A = Arm weakness or numbness
– S = Speech difficulties
– T = Time to seek emergency care
Other symptoms include trouble swallowing, difficulty finding words, sudden confusion, dizziness, severe headache, unsteady balance, and vision problems like loss of sight. If you or someone you know is experiencing these signs, please consult a healthcare provider immediately.
Source: https://www.thesun.co.uk/health/32950813/adults-parents-divorced-when-kids-risk-stroke