Stroke, Heart Attack Rank Among Top Killers, Yet Most Koreans Unaware of Symptoms

The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) has urged citizens to immediately call 119 if they or their family members experience symptoms of stroke or myocardial infarction ahead of the Lunar New Year holiday.

According to medical authorities on January 15, myocardial infarction and stroke are among the leading causes of death in South Korea, with heart disease ranking second and cerebrovascular disease ranking fourth in the 2024 mortality statistics. These are severe conditions that can lead to death when blood vessels supplying the brain or heart muscle become abnormal, causing tissue damage and resulting physical disabilities.

Symptoms of stroke and myocardial infarction appear suddenly. When symptoms occur, patients must contact 119 without delay to receive appropriate treatment.

Early warning signs of stroke include sudden weakness in one side of the face, arm, or leg. Patients may experience slurred speech or difficulty understanding others. Vision problems may also occur, including loss of sight in one eye, loss of half the visual field in both eyes, or double vision. Sudden dizziness, difficulty maintaining balance, or severe headaches unlike any previously experienced may also indicate stroke.

Early symptoms of myocardial infarction include sudden shortness of breath, severe chest pain, pressure, or a crushing sensation. Severe pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or back is also an early warning sign. Sudden pain or discomfort in the arm or shoulder may occur as well.

According to 2023 cardiovascular disease statistics, the incidence of stroke and myocardial infarction in South Korea is on the rise. The incidence rate increases with age, with the highest rates observed in those aged 80 and above.

Despite this trend, the 2025 Community Health Survey found that only 60.7% of people recognize early stroke symptoms, while just 51.5% are aware of myocardial infarction warning signs. With only five to six out of ten Korean adults recognizing early symptoms, greater public awareness is needed.

Failure to respond promptly and appropriately to stroke and myocardial infarction can result in serious disabilities even in survivors, increasing the burden on patients and families through medical expenses. Prevention through early detection and treatment is particularly critical during cold weather like the current season, when blood vessels constrict and blood pressure rises, elevating the risk of these conditions.

The KDCA has established "Nine Guidelines for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention and Management," which outline the dangers of stroke and myocardial infarction and response protocols. The agency is working to prevent these conditions through promotional content posted on its social media channels.

"Because early symptoms appear suddenly, it is necessary to familiarize yourself with the early symptoms of stroke and myocardial infarction and respond quickly," said KDCA Commissioner Lim Seung-kwan. "Please pay special attention if there are high-risk individuals nearby, such as the elderly or those with underlying conditions like hypertension." He added, "For prevention, it is important to consistently practice healthy lifestyle habits."