Experts Emphasize Essential Steps to Minimize Stroke Risk During Awareness Month

May marks National Stroke Awareness Month, a vital period dedicated to educating the public on prevention and early recognition of strokes. Stroke is a significant health concern in the United States, occurring approximately every 40 seconds, and its risk increases with age. According to the National Institutes of Health, understanding and managing risk factors can substantially reduce the likelihood of experiencing a stroke.

Preventing strokes is a top priority, as around 80% of all strokes are considered preventable through lifestyle modifications and medical management. A stroke happens when a blood vessel in the brain becomes blocked or ruptured, leading to decreased blood flow and potentially severe disability or death.

Leading health experts from Mayo Clinic stress the importance of controlling modifiable risk factors to lower long-term stroke risk. Essential measures include maintaining blood pressure below 130/80 mm Hg, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, quitting smoking, treating sleep apnea with devices like CPAP, and addressing other health issues that contribute to stroke risk.

While some risk factors cannot be changed—such as age over 55, male sex, race, and family history—individuals can take proactive steps to mitigate their overall risk profile. For example, those with a family history of stroke or African American individuals should be especially vigilant.

Awareness and early intervention are key to reducing the impact of strokes. Healthcare professionals recommend regular health check-ups, lifestyle adjustments, and proper management of existing health conditions to prevent strokes and improve outcomes during this important awareness month.