10 Risk factors equal 90% of stroke

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A recent study has shown that there are 10 risk factors associated with 90% of the risk of having a stroke. And these risk factors can be modified!

This information is a summary of the article titled: Interstroke: Ten Modifiable Risk Factors Explain 90% of Stroke Risk in Heartwire by Michael O'Riordan.
 
Highlights of the article:

• The global burden of stroke,  disproportionately affectes countries of low and middle income
• These low- and middle-income countries account for more than 85% of stroke mortality worldwide
• Self-reported hypertension was the strongest risk factor for stroke and a history of hypertension was associated with a more than 2.5-fold increased risk of stroke
• 80% of the global risk of stroke comes from these risk factors: hypertension, current smoking, abdominal obesity, diet, and physical activity

 
Take home message:

• High blood pressure is extremely important to control to decrease your risk of heart attack and stroke
• All the other risk factors we have discussed are just as valuable at preventing stroke as it is heart disease.

 
Keep your risk under control:

• Blood pressure: goal of 120/80 or less
• Stop smoking
• Keep your weight normal
• Prevent or control diabetes by eating healthy foods
• Alcohol in moderation
• Get regular activity
• Keep cholesterol in check

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