Recent data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows a concerning trend: between 2011 and 2022, the prevalence of stroke among working-age adults increased by 15 percent, largely due to work-related stress and lifestyle habits.
During this period, the overall stroke prevalence in the U.S. rose by 7.8 percent. The increase was particularly pronounced among individuals aged 18 to 64:
14.6 percent rise in the 18 to 44 age group
15.7 percent rise in the 45 to 64 age group
I have witnessed people in their 30s suddenly suffer from stroke, resulting in significant challenges in daily life. Recognizing early signs and risk factors of stroke may help young people prevent this serious condition.
Types of Stroke
There are two types of strokes:
Ischemic stroke: Occurs when a blood vessel becomes blocked (accounts for approximately 87 percent of all stroke cases)
Hemorrhagic stroke: Happens when a blood vessel ruptures
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the symptoms of cerebral thrombosis or cerebral hemorrhage are collectively referred to as “stroke,” which is believed to be linked to the pathogenic factor known as “wind.” TCM views illness through the lens of energy, with “wind” representing a form of energy characterized by rapid movement and frequent changes—reflecting the sudden and diverse nature of stroke symptoms.
Jingduan Yang
M.D.
Dr. Jingduan Yang is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in integrative and traditional Chinese medicine. He developed the ACES Model of Health and Medicine and leads clinical, educational, and research initiatives. As a principal founder of the Northern School of Medicine and Health Sciences, he advances whole-person care grounded in science, ethics, and humanity.
