“Only 1 in 10 French people presents an ideal cardio-necked health”, alerts the Director of Public Health France.
Cerebral vascular accidents (stroke) are among the most frequent cardiovascular diseases in France. Each year, more than 120,000 hospitalizations and 30,000 deaths are allocated to strokes. However, their distribution on the territory is not homogeneous and certain regions are more affected than others. To better understand these disparities, Public Health France has drawn up an inventory of cardiovascular health by region, based on hospitalization, prevalence and mortality data.
Several elements may explain these strong regional disparities in stroke: more frequent risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity or high cholesterol; A diet richer in salt and sugar, a lack of physical activity, a greater tobacco and alcohol consumption … To this is added more limited access to prevention, early care and regular medical monitoring. Genetic and environmental factors can also play a role, some populations being more exposed to metabolic pathologies.
Among all the French regions, in June 2025, the meeting is that which recorded the highest stroke rates, whether in terms of hospitalizations, prevalence or mortality (384 cases per 100,000 inhabitants against 231 for the national average). In mainland France, Brittany has the most stroke, with an incidence greater than the national average (259 cases of stroke per 100,000 inhabitants). About 7,600 patients are hospitalized for a stroke in Brittany each year, including 80% of ischemic origin (the most common form) and 20% of hemorrhagic origin. The Côtes d’Armor department is the most affected by the strokes in Brittany.
“”Today, only one in ten French people presents an ideal cardio-necker“, Alerts Dr. Caroline Soumaille, Director General of Public Health France. An alarming observation which recalls the importance of daily prevention. To reduce its risk of stroke, several simple gestures can make the difference: adopt a balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, fibers, and poor in salt, added sugars and saturated fats is essential.
Regular physical activity, even moderate, helps maintain good cardiovascular health. It is also important to monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol levels and blood sugar, especially in the event of family history. Stop tobacco and limit alcohol are among the most effective prevention levers.
