Common Risk Factors
Risk factors are traits and lifestyle habits that increase the risk of disease. Extensive clinical and statistical studies have identified several factors that increase the risk of stroke. Most of them can be modified, treated or controlled. Some can’t.
How Cardiovascular & Stroke Risks Relate
Both coronary heart disease and stroke share many of the same risk factors such as cholesterol disorders, high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, physical inactivity, and being overweight or obese.
Controlling Risky Conditions
Learn more about how many conditions contributing to the risk of stroke or recurrent stroke can be controlled.
Stroke Risk for African Americans
Heart disease and stroke are major health risks for all people. But African Americans are at particularly high risk.
Stroke Among Hispanics
Stroke is the fourth-leading cause of death among Hispanics. One study found that hemorrhagic strokes occurred more commonly in Hispanics than in any other subgroup.
Hidden Risk Factors for Women
This year, more than 100,000 U.S. women under age 65 will have a stroke. Stroke is not a geriatric disease. And it's not confined to elderly overweight smokers who have high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
This content is reviewed regularly. Last updated 06/16/09.
