Strokes can affect anyone, regardless of age, and represent a leading cause of death and long-term disability in the United States. The American Stroke Association emphasizes that strokes are largely preventable, treatable, and beatable by controlling risk factors. Every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. experiences a stroke, highlighting the urgency of managing blood pressure, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and recognizing stroke warning signs.

The Together to End Stroke initiative, supported by the HCA Healthcare Foundation, focuses on controlling risk factors to prevent strokes. Up to 80% of strokes may be preventable by managing conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity through healthy lifestyle behaviors such as proper nutrition, quitting smoking, and regular physical activity. Atrial fibrillation (AFib), characterized by an irregular heartbeat, significantly increases stroke risk, making individuals with AFib five times more likely to experience a stroke.

Preventing a second stroke is crucial, as nearly 1 in 4 strokes occur in individuals who have previously had one. Identifying the cause of the initial stroke is essential for future prevention. Treatment varies depending on the type of stroke and requires medical evaluations and tests. A comprehensive plan should include managing risk factors like maintaining healthy blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels.

Dr. Teresita Casanova, a neurologist and American Stroke Association volunteer expert, emphasizes the importance of consistent lifestyle changes and medication adherence in preventing second strokes. Tools like the Heart & Stroke Helper app can aid stroke survivors and caregivers by tracking lifestyle habits, managing medications, and providing stroke-related information.

Recognizing stroke signs is crucial for timely intervention. The acronym F.A.S.T. helps identify stroke symptoms: F (Face Drooping), A (Arm Weakness), S (Speech slurred), and T (Time to call 911). Immediate action by calling 911 upon recognizing these symptoms is vital, as stroke is largely treatable if addressed promptly.