Many people do not know the risk factors for stroke. Preventing stroke is very important for public health.
Stroke is a main cause of death and disability in England. It can be prevented. Although many believe strokes only happen to older people, they can occur at any age. More young adults under 55 are having strokes now.
Risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, and smoking. Lifestyle choices like drinking too much alcohol and using drugs like cocaine can also increase risks.
Some factors we cannot change, like age or family history. However, we can do things to reduce our stroke risk.
Eight Ways to Reduce Stroke Risk
1. Stop smoking. Smokers are more likely to have a stroke.
2. Check your blood pressure. High blood pressure is dangerous.
3. Keep track of your cholesterol. High cholesterol can cause strokes.
4. Watch your blood sugar. High blood sugar is not good for you.
5. Stay at a healthy weight. Being overweight increases stroke risk.
6. Follow a Mediterranean diet. This diet is healthy and rich in fiber. It may lower stroke risk.
7. Sleep well. Get seven to nine hours of sleep each night.
8. Stay active. Aim for at least 150 minutes of exercise each week.
Making these changes can help you live a healthier life and reduce stroke risk.
Vocabulary List:
- Stroke /stroʊk/ (noun): A medical condition where poor blood flow to the brain results in cell death.
- Risk /rɪsk/ (noun): The possibility of suffering harm or loss.
- Obesity /oʊˈbiː.sɪ.ti/ (noun): The condition of being grossly fat or overweight.
- Cholesterol /kəˈlɛs.tə.rɒl/ (noun): A substance that is found in the body and can lead to heart disease when in excess.
- Mediterranean /ˌmɛdɪtəˈreɪniən/ (adjective): Relating to the Mediterranean Sea or its region often characterized by a diet rich in fruits vegetables and healthy fats.
- Prevention /prɪˈvɛnʃən/ (noun): The act of stopping something from happening or arising.
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