What’s My Risk for Having a Stroke? 

A stroke is an emergency medical condition that happens when either the blood supply to the brain is blocked, or a blood vessel bleeds in the brain. Immediate medical treatment is key as a stroke can cause severe brain damage, permanent disability, and death.  

“Anyone can have a stroke, so it’s important to know the signs and the importance of seeking treatment right away,” said Laurie Schutz, stroke program manager at the region’s WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute (RNI). “Many factors can increase your risk of stroke. Being aware of these risk factors can help you take steps to prevent a stroke and improve your overall health.” 

Stroke risk factors are generally separated as being modifiable and nonmodifiable.  

“A modifiable risk is something about your lifestyle you can change or control, and a nonmodifiable risk is something out of your control,” Schutz said. “Factors such as age, sex, race, and family history are beyond your control. However, understanding these risk factors allows you and your healthcare provider to develop a personalized plan to reduce your overall stroke risk and make informed decisions about your health” 

Strokes are more common in women than in men,  and people who are non-Hispanic Black or Pacific Islander may be more likely to die from a stroke than others. In addition, your risk for stroke increases as you get older, especially after age 55. 

Modifiable Risk Factors Include: 

• Alcohol and tobacco use.
• Weight.
• Diet and exercise.
• Treatable conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, carotid artery disease, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, heart and artery diseases and conditions. 

“Lifestyle changes can make a big difference in your stroke risk,” Schutz said. “Prioritizing a healthy diet and setting a goal of trying to do 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity a week can lower your risk and benefit other treatable conditions like obesity.” 

If you’re at risk for a stroke, talk to your healthcare provider about what you can do to lower your risk. And you can learn more about RNI Stroke Care online at: Stroke Center | WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute