Data from the World Bank climate database “Climatic Research Unit Gridded Time Series” and the “Global Burden of Disease Study” were analyzed to estimate the burden of stroke globally and its association with different climate conditions.

The study found that more than 5 lakh deaths and 9 million DALYs (Disability Adjusted Life Years) due to stroke were attributable to non-optimal temperature exposure.

The age-standardized mortality rate was found to be higher in men (ASMR -7.70) compared to women (ASMR - 5.89).

Central Asia has the highest-burden at a regional level.

The stroke burden due to low temperatures was more prevalent than high temperatures, but the burden of higher temperatures has increased over the years with disproportionate effects on the lower socio-demographic index areas of Africa, and Central Asia.

The study draws attention to the impact of climate change on stroke and the need for policy actions towards it.