How to prevent a stroke? New guidelines emerge with tips

Each year, hundreds of thousands of people suffer from stroke. But here’s the hopeful news: many of these strokes are preventable. The American Heart Association (AHA) and

American Stroke Association

(ASA) have released updated guidelines, providing fresh insights into how preventive measures and lifestyle changes can reduce

stroke

risk greatly. This newly released guidance includes a range of strategies, from medical screenings to specific lifestyle changes, designed to help people of all ages reduce their stroke risk throughout life. Following are some of the most impactful recommendations that could help us and our loved ones avoid a stroke.

Screening for stroke risk factors early and regularly

A large portion of the new recommendations underlines the need to screen for stroke risk factors early and frequently. Doctors are encouraged to begin screening for excessive blood pressure, cholesterol, increased blood sugar, and obesity as early as possible. These checks help in detecting abnormalities before they worsen. Knowing your health stats and working with your doctor to keep them under control can significantly minimise your risk of stroke. People with high blood pressure or cholesterol, in particular, should consult with their doctors to develop an appropriate risk-management strategy.

A heart-healthy diet

The guidelines put a little stress on eating a Mediterranean-style diet rich. This diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats such as olive oil. This diet contains a high concentration of nutrients which boost cardiovascular health, lowering the risk of stroke. Reduced consumption of red meat, sugary foods, and processed snacks can significantly reduce the risk of stroke. Instead, choosing for nutrient-dense meals rich in lean meats, whole grains, and greens can help improve vascular health and lower the risk of a stroke.

Physical activity as stroke prevention

Physical inactivity is another leading risk factor for stroke, and the guidelines stress the need for regular exercise. It’s recommended that adults aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity, such as brisk walking, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity, like running, each week. Moving regularly doesn’t just benefit your heart and muscles—it strengthens your entire cardiovascular system, which is important for brain health. Even small changes like taking the stairs or going for a daily walk can help you reach these targets and significantly lower your stroke risk.

Unique risks for women

This update also highlights some gender-specific stroke risks that women face, such as those associated with pregnancy, oral contraceptive use, and menopause. Women experiencing conditions like endometriosis or early menopause may also be at heightened risk and should discuss these with their healthcare providers. The guidelines urge doctors to consider the social factors that influence health, like economic stability, access to care, and environmental conditions. Addressing these issues can help create a more equitable approach to stroke prevention, particularly in communities with limited resources.