African Americans And Stroke

Each year, according to the American Stroke Association, some 750,000 Americans will suffer from a stroke, the third leading cause of death in the U.S. For African Americans, the statistics are even more frightening.

African Americans are twice as likely to die from a stroke as Caucasians. In fact, African Americans between the ages of 35 and 54 have four times the risk of suffering from a stroke.

A stroke occurs when there is an interruption of blood flow to the brain. This can happen when a blood clot blocks an artery or blood vessel, or when the vessel itself breaks. When this happens, the cells die quickly, which causes the body to lose control of the abilities that area of the brain once controlled.

It is unknown why strokes are more prevalent among the African American community, but some factors may include a higher incidence of the following conditions: high blood pressure, diabetes and sickle cell disease.

"While certain risk factors, such as age, gender, race, family history and diabetes may not be changed, positive lifestyle changes can go a long way towards preventing strokes," said Dr. Robert Lada, director of cerebrovascular medicine at Summa Health System.

The Summa Center for Stroke Care recommends that you:

* Stop smoking.

* Drink alcohol in moderation, if at all.

* Monitor your blood pressure. Healthy blood pressure is considered 120/80.

* Enjoy a lower fat, low-salt diet.

* Exercise a minimum of 30 minutes three to five days a week.

* Talk to your doctor if you have diabetes or poor circulation. -- Summa Health System

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