Common Risk factors for Stroke and Medical Prevention Therapies

Abstract

Stroke from thrombosis or emboli in cerebral vessels or hemorrhage is one of the most commonly encountered and most devastating neurological diseases. Rapid loss of function occurs due to an interruption of blood supply to the brain, leading to tissue ischemia and cell death. The risk of both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke doubles for each successive decade after age 55, which is likely independent of other risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. Lifestyle modifications, antiplatelet therapy and control of hyperlipidemia and hypertension are the mainstays of prevention.