February 27, 2023
Family history, low birth weight, advancing age… some stroke risk factors are not modifiable. Others, however, are and relate to our lifestyle.
A recent study published in The Lancet highlighted the fact that around 90% of cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs) might be attributed to risk factors that can be modified by adopting better lifestyle habits.
First of them, smoking. Smoking actually doubles the risk of stroke. Before age 50, it even quadruples it. Moreover, active smoking is not the only responsible since passive smokers also see their risk increase.
Another contributing factor is obesity. This applies to both older and younger subjects. Rises in blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar, favored by excess weight, contribute three-quarters to this increased risk. Which is increased in case of sedentary lifestyle. People who don’t exercise regularly have a 25-30% higher risk of stroke than those who do.
Alcohol also has a role to play. In fact, repeated consumption can be accompanied by high blood pressure or heart failure. According to estimates, the risk of stroke increases beyond 3 standard drinks a day.
What regarding drugs?
Drug use (cannabis, cocaine) also greatly increases the risk of stroke. For example, in people under 50, the consumption of cocaine multiplies by seven the risk of cerebral infarction within 24 hours of taking it.
Finally, there is an undeniable link between stroke and stress. If it is strong and prolonged, the latter imposes a higher workload on the heart, and increases blood pressure as well as cholesterol and glucose levels in the blood. Thus, a recent study by the University of Galway (Ireland) showed that the occurrence of a stressful event increases the risk of stroke by 17%. And 31% beyond 2 events.
How to prevent?
In practice, to reduce the risk of stroke, it is important to:
- NO SMOKING ;
- Limit alcohol consumption;
- Do not use drugs;
- Balance your diet;
- Practice regular physical activity;
- Screen for diseases that increase the risk: high blood pressure, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, atrial fibrillation, etc.