What do physical activity and strokes have in common? This year—World Stroke Day. Organizations around the world are encouraging people to get active every day. On October 29, World Stroke Day is highlighting physical activity. It’s a way to bring attention to strokes and to encourage people to develop habits that can prevent strokes. In 2022, more than 22,000 Virginians experienced a stroke event. Strokes happen when the blood supply to the brain is blocked or a blood vessel in the brain bursts. People can reduce their risk of stroke by adopting the following healthy habits.
- Eating a healthy diet
- Avoid smoking
- Limiting the amount of alcohol that you drink
- Exercise regularly
- Watch your weight
Other risk factors can increase your risk for a stroke. Work with your doctor to manage or treat your health conditions.
- Test your cholesterol levels
- Watch your blood pressure
- If you have diabetes, check your blood sugar levels
- Take your medicine for the health conditions mentioned.
While good habits can help, there are other risk factors that are beyond your control. Your age, sex and ethnic background can be factors. You can learn more by visiting The Virginia Department of Health stroke website. Also, check out the statewide program called Stroke Smart Virginia. It teaches people and businesses how to recognize and immediately respond to a stroke.