What is Your Stroke Risk?

Stroke is a leading cause of death in the United States, killing nearly 130,000 Americans each year. That’s 1 of every 19 deaths. We all need to be aware our stroke risk, so Medical Department Store have been talking about stroke and what your preventable risks are. Last time we talked about the preventable risks, now we’ll talk about the risks that you can’t control.

Different races are more at risk fr stroke, as are people who are older and women

The risk of stroke increases with age. After the age of 55, stroke risk doubles for every decade a person is alive.

Women suffer more strokes each year than men. Why? Often simply because women live longer and more age equals more risk. About 55,000 more women than men have strokes.

Hispanic and Asian/Pacific Islanders have higher risk than Caucasians and African Americans have twice the risk of stroke when compared to Caucasians. Obviously you can’t change your race, so if you in the high risk groups, be especially aware of your lifestyle choices.

Eye color and height isn’t the only thing that you can inherit from family.  If a family member has had a stroke, everyone in the family has a higher risk. Talk to your family soon.

Adding insult to injury, about 5 to 14 percent of the people who have a stroke this year will have a second one. Having a stroke puts you at a much higher risk for having another one.

Be smart. No your risks, both preventable and non-preventable and take the steps you need to take to stay healthy.

If you or someone you care about recovering from a stroke, see Medical Department Store for equipment and supplies to make recovery better and safer. From bathroom safety equipment to hospital beds and supplies, see Medical Department Store first.