Summary: Non-invasive brain scans for babies under 1 year old can help detect early changes in brain vessels, potentially reducing the risk of strokes later in life, with 80% of strokes being preventable through early detection and intervention.
Key Takeaways
- Non-Invasive Brain Scans for Infants: Researchers suggest that non-invasive brain scans for babies under one year old can help identify risk factors and reduce the chance of stroke later in life.
- Consistent Aneurysm Patterns: A study published in BMJ Open reveals that brain aneurysm patterns have remained unchanged over 260 years, indicating that changes in brain vessels can be detected early in life.
- High Stroke Preventability: Stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide, with over 80% of strokes being preventable through early detection and intervention.
- Early Monitoring and Intervention: Detecting brain vessel changes early in life can help monitor and manage at-risk individuals throughout their lives, with non-invasive transcranial Doppler ultrasound recommended for screening young children.
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Non-invasive brain scans for babies under 1 year old could help identify risk factors and reduce the chance of stroke later in life, according to researchers at the University of South Australia (UniSA).
A new study found that brain aneurysm patterns have stayed the same over time, despite medical advances. This means changes in brain vessels can be detected early in life. The study, published in BMJ Open, looked at 260 years of data to understand long-term trends in brain aneurysms, which can lead to strokes.
80% of Strokes Preventable
Stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide, affecting 15 million people annually. Five million die, and another five million are permanently disabled, burdening families and economies. In Australia, stroke kills more women than breast cancer and more men than prostate cancer. Over 80% of strokes can be prevented, and each stroke costs about $300,000. Early detection can save lives and money.
Arjun Burlakoti, PhD, a neuroanatomy expert at UniSA, says detecting changes in brain vessels in children could prevent strokes later in life. “A brain aneurysm is a bulge in the artery to the brain, caused by a weak artery wall. If it bursts, it can cause a stroke,” Burlakoti says. “Brain aneurysms can develop at any age. While most diagnoses occur between ages 31-60, childhood aneurysms are almost as common as in adults. This is because childhood is a shorter period than adulthood.”
Burlakoti adds, “Our study shows that aneurysms and brain vessel changes are likely present from birth. This means if we can identify these changes early in life, we can monitor and check at-risk individuals throughout their lives.”
Ultrasound for Child Brain Vessel Screening
The researchers suggest using a non-invasive transcranial Doppler ultrasound to scan babies and children for brain vessel changes. This painless test uses sound waves to check blood flow in and around the brain and detect vessel changes. They say this screening method could allow for timely intervention and prevent aneurysms and stroke-related complications.
“Screening for brain artery changes in children under two years old could be a practical tool,” Burlakoti says. “This safe, non-invasive test gives families a way to follow up if any changes are found. [After all,] if you could reduce the risk through a simple screening test, why wouldn’t you?”