World Stroke Day: October 29

Native News Network Staff in Native Health. Discussion »

Preventable

BETHESDA, MARYLAND - The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,CDC, in support of World Stroke Day, October 29, asks Americans to take immediate action to reduce their risk for stroke.

In general, American Indians and Alaska Native adults are 60 percent more likely to have a stroke than their Caucasian counterparts, according to the Office of Minority Health at the US Department of Health and Human Services. American Indian/Alaska Native women have twice the rate of stroke than White women.

Stroke is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. About 137,000 Americans die of stroke every year, about equivalent to the total population of Eugene, Oregon, or Savannah, Georgia.

A stroke, sometimes called a brain attack, occurs when a clot blocks the blood supply to the brain or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. You can greatly reduce your risk for stroke through lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication.

Although a common occurrence, strokes are preventable. The following actions can reduce the likelihood of having a stroke:

Among the actions available today to reduce stroke and heart attacks, Million Hearts seeks to improve clinical care by helping patients learn and follow their ABCs:

Aspirin for people at risk

Blood pressure control

Cholesterol management

Smoking cessation

Less than half of Americans who should be taking an aspirin a day are taking one; less than half of Americans with high blood pressure have it under control. Only 1 in 3 Americans with high cholesterol is effectively treated, and less than a quarter of Americans who smoke get help to quit when they see their doctor.

High blood pressure, a risk factor for stroke, affects 68 million adults in the United States and about half of adults with high blood pressure do not have their condition under control.

Sudden Symptoms of Stroke

Stroke can cause death or significant disability, such as paralysis, speech difficulties, and emotional problems. Some new treatments can reduce stroke damage if patients get medical care soon after symptoms begin.

The sudden onset of any of the following symptoms require immediate medical attention:

When a stroke happens, it is important to recognize the symptoms, call 9-1-1 right away, and get to a hospital quickly.

posted October 29, 2011 7:00 am edt