Stroke Risk Factors

Certain conditions – such as elevated blood pressure or cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease, smoking, a transient ischemic attack (TIA), lack of exercise, obesity, or a family history – put a person at greater risk for stroke. Multiple risk factors increase your chance of a stroke. Working with a health care professional to develop a healthier lifestyle can help you reduce your risk for stroke.

Stroke risk factors that can be controlled or treated

• High blood pressure
• Tobacco use
• Diabetes
• Diet
• High cholesterol
• Lack of physical activity
• Obesity
• Carotid or other artery disease
• Peripheral artery disease
• Atrial fibrillation (Afib) or other heart disease
• Certain blood disorders
• Excessive alcohol intake
• Illegal drug use

Additional stroke risk factors:

• Age
• Gender
• Heredity and race
• Family history
• Prior stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA) or heart attack

Patient Story: Jarmila Stehle