Abstract:
Stroke is one of the most debilitating thrombotic diseases, and world-wide it is estimated that by, 2030, 23
million people will be affected. Except for the impact on the individual families, the world economy is also
affected adversely. Although the medical treatment and knowledge of stroke are both increasing and wellresearched,
we still do not see a decrease in stroke prevalence. Currently various diagnostic tests are employed
to determine the specific type of ischemic stroke as classified by the TOAST criteria. However, these tests are
done after the stroke has occurred and therefore only contribute to the unquestionably crucial aspect of treating
that particular stroke patient, but it does not improve prevention of future events. Prevention strategies regarding
first-time stroke need urgent attention given the alarming present and future incidence of stroke. Therefore, here
we discuss the importance of stroke prevention and suggest amore inclusive, perhaps “new” comprehensive approach
for pre-stroke screening.Ultrastructural tests, particularly scanning electron microscopy, provide an innovative
and novel advance in preventative and individualized patient-centered precision medicine. This precise
technique when used in combination with well-established methods, as well as viscoelastic methods like
thromboelastography (TEG), as a screening tool to prevent stroke can ultimately alleviate the financial and economical
burden of stroke and also improve quality of life. Although we appreciate the fact that this suggestion
might be difficult to accept by clinicians, a bold new approach is needed to address this pandemic we call stroke.
