Strokes have risen by a quarter in young men over the last 20 years, NHS figures show, while cases in 50-59 year-olds are up by 55 per cent. Now, another victim of the trend faces paralysis for life. Strokes have risen by a quarter in young men over the last 20 years, NHS figures show, while cases in 50-59 year-olds are up by 55 per cent. Now, another victim of the trend faces paralysis for life.