Researchers at the University of South Australia have found that non-invasive brain scans for children under one year old may help identify risk factors and decrease the likelihood of stroke later in life.
In their study, published in BMJ Open, the researchers analyzed 260 years of data to track long-term trends of brain aneurysms, a potential cause of stroke. They discovered that despite medical advancements, patterns of brain aneurysms have remained consistent over time, indicating that variations in brain vessels could be detected early in life.
Stroke ranks as the second leading cause of death globally, affecting 15 million people annually. In Australia alone, stroke claims more lives than breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men, with one Australian experiencing a stroke every 19 minutes.
Lead researcher Dr. Arjun Burlakoti, a Senior Lecturer in Anatomy and Neuroanatomy at UniSA, highlights the importance of early detection: identifying variations in brain vessels during childhood could potentially prevent strokes later in life.
Dr. Burlakoti explains that cerebral aneurysms, characterized by a bulge in the artery to the brain, pose a risk of stroke if ruptured. While these aneurysms typically appear between the ages of 31 and 60, childhood cases are not uncommon. The study suggests that variations in brain arterial networks may be present from birth, underscoring the significance of early detection.
The researchers propose using non-invasive transcranial Doppler ultrasound to scan babies and children for brain vessel variations. This painless test employs sound waves to examine blood flow in and around the brain, aiding in the detection of potential aneurysms and stroke-related complications.
Dr. Burlakoti emphasizes the potential benefits of such screenings, particularly for children under two years old. Early identification of variant arterial components could offer families a practical means of monitoring and addressing potential risks.
The study was a collaborative effort involving Dr. Jaliya Kumaratilake, Dr. Jamie Taylor, and Prof. Maciej Henneberg from the University of Adelaide, Royal Adelaide Hospital, and University of Zurich, respectively. Their findings underscore the value of early intervention in mitigating stroke risks and improving long-term health outcomes.
