Risk Factors of Stroke

Several factors may increase your risk for stroke. Know these factors and take the steps necessary to decrease your risk.

High Blood Pressure: It's the #1 cause of stroke. Regularly monitor your blood pressure and always take prescribed medication.
Diabetes: Control your diabetes with proper diet, exercise and medication.
Obesity: Being just 20 pounds overweight significantly increases your risk of a stroke or heart disease.
Smoking: Smoking increases your risk of stroke by two to three times.
Mini-strokes (TIAs or transient ischemic attacks): When stroke symptoms such as confusion, slurred speech or loss of balance appear and disappear, call 9-1-1. You may be able to prevent a major stroke.

Determining Your Risk for Stroke

1	Have either of your parents, grandparents, or any one of your siblings or cousins had a stroke?	Yes	No
2	Are you 65 or older?	Yes	No
3	Do you have diabetes?	Yes	No
4	Do you have more than 6 alcoholic drinks a week?	Yes	No
5	Do you have high blood pressure?	Yes	No
6	Do you smoke?	Yes	No
7	Do you have high cholesterol?	Yes	No
8	Do you exercise fewer than 3 times a week?	Yes	No
9	Are you more than 20% over your ideal weight?	Yes	No
10	Have you experienced dizziness or blurred vision?	Yes	No

If you answered "yes" to more than one question, then your risk for a stroke is increased.

Your risk for stroke may be reduced through:

Diet
Cessation of smoking
Reduced alcohol intake
Increased exercise
Regular visits to your doctor to check your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.