7 Things You Should Be Doing NOW To Reduce Your Risk Of Stroke

May is National Stroke Awareness Month

Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of severe disability. Nonetheless, many people are unaware of the signs and symptoms of a stroke, and even fewer are aware of stroke risk factors.

Although stroke threatens millions of lives and can have devastating effects on victims and their families, it is estimated that more than 80 percent of strokes can be prevented. 

According to the American Stroke Association, high blood pressure is the leading cause of stroke, with 75 percent of stroke victims suffering from the condition.  While some risk factors cannot be prevented, other risk factors, such as obesity and diabetes, can be managed or controlled through diet and exercise.

In observation of National Stroke Awareness Month, take time to learn about strokes and stroke risk factors…they can be easily detected and diagnosed through routine checkups with a primary care provider or with a simple screening tool such as this:

How did you do?  If you are at low risk...congratulations and keep up the good work. If your score put you in the caution zone...start working today to reduce your risk of having a stroke. If you scored in the high risk zone...talk to your doctor right away about stroke prevention. 

To reduce your risk of having a stroke and to achieve ideal health, the American Heart Association recommends Life's Simple 7:   

7 Things To Do NOW To Reduce Your Risk of Stroke

1. Don't smoke
2. Be physically active
3. Eat a healthy diet
4. Maintain a healthy body weight
5. Control your blood pressure
6. Control your blood sugar
7. Control your cholesterol

Join the American Heart Association/ American Stroke Association as they campaign to put an end to stroke...become a Stroke Hero. You can activate your super powers by learning the 5 things every stroke hero should know. Sharing this information could save a life...even yours!

The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old, but on building the new. 
Socrates