RISK FACTORS:

Two segments for risk factors are the ones that can be controlled and those that cannot be controlled.

Controllable

The controlled risk factors are: smoking, cholesterol level, high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation, diabetes, previous TIA's, alcohol, diet, weight and lack of exercise. Making a lifestyle change and taking control of these situations and conditions can reduce the stroke risk significantly.

Uncontrollable

The uncontrolled risk factors are: age, race, gender, and family history of strokes or TIA's. These situations are out of our control. Stroke risk will double for each decade past 55 with 2/3 of all strokes happening to people over 65. Men are slightly higher risk than women for strokes, however, women over 65 are more likely to have a stroke. That is due to the fact they live longer, but become more at risk after 65 years of age. African-American have a higher stroke risk than most other racial groups.