The are many risk factors that increase your risk of stroke. Five of these can be treated:
* high blood pressure,
* heart disease,
* cigarette smoking,
* transient ischemic attacks, and
* a high red blood cell count.

Seven risk factors for stroke can't be changed. These are:
* age,
* being male,
* being African American,
* being diabetic,
* having had a prior stroke,
* heredity, and
* having evidence of obstruction in one of the neck vessels.

Other, less-well-documented risk factors include: 1) geographicarea, 2) season and climate, 3) socioeconomic factors, 4) excessive-alcohol intake, and 5) certain kinds of drug abuse. High blood pressure is the most important risk factor for stroke. Since this affects one in every four American adults, it is a very common problem. Women don't tolerate high blood pressure any better than men. Because the risk of stroke from high blood pressure doesn't decrease as a person gets older, everyone should have their blood pressure checked regularly. Control of high blood pressure reduces the risk of stroke. Often blood pressure can be controlled simply by eating a healthier diet and maintaining proper weight. Drugs to control blood pressure are also available. Many people think the reason the death rate from stroke has declined over the past decade is due to better control of high blood pressure.

Heart disease increases the risk of stroke. Persons with abnormal heart rhythms or a heart attack have a higher chance of stroke. These people should carefully follow their doctor's advice.

Smoking increases the risk of stroke. Smoking also increases the effects of other risks, such as high blood pressure. Persons who smoke should stop. To learn more, contact your American Heart Association office or call (800) 242-8721.

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