The Stroke Center
Reduce Your Risk: Factors for Stroke
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Stroke is
the third leading cause of death and the number one cause
of long-term disability in the United States. Approximately
700,000 Americans will have a stroke this year; that's someone
every 45 seconds.
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There are several factors that increase your risk of stroke. The more
risk factors you have, the greater chance of having a stroke. Although
risk factors like your age, family health history and gender can't
be controlled, others, suchsuch as your amount of physical activity
and decision to smoke can be modified.
You are at a greater risk of having a stroke if you:
- Are 55 and older
- Have a family history of stroke
- Have high blood pressure
- Smoke
- Have diabetes
- Have heart or valvular disease
- Have an increase in your red blood cell count
- Are overweight
- Are not physically active
There are simple ways to reduce your risk of suffering a stroke.
- Don't smoke
- Don't abuse alcohol or drugs
- Exercise regularly
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Control your blood pressure and cholesterol levels
- Pay attention to the warning signs
For more information about the Stroke Center at The Miriam Hospital,
please call 401-793-5533.
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