Risk factors of Stroke

Age. The most important risk factor is age, but stroke should not be considered a condition that occurs exclusively in the elderly. Over the age of 55, each decade that passes doubles the risk of a stroke.

High blood pressure. Ppredisposes both infarctions and brain haemorrhages.

Diabetes. Increases the risk of stroke by 1.8- to 6-fold, especially if the patient also has high blood pressure.

A sedentary lifestyle. Can lead to stroke.

Obesity. Especially in the abdominal area, increases the risk of stroke in both men and women.

Smoking. Increases the risk of infarction and brain haemorrhage. Having quit smoking for at least five years, this risk will decrease.

High cholesterol. Hypercholesterolemia significantly increases the chance of suffering an ischaemic stroke.

Drug and alcohol consumption. Is associated with an increased risk of infarction and brain haemorrhage.

Gender. Men are at a greater risk of suffering a stroke than women. However this relationship is reversed in people aged 80 and over because of the longer life expectancy of women.

Some population groups. Such as African Americans and Hispanics, can present a greater risk of stroke. There are clear indications of an increased risk of stroke in groups living in adverse socio-economic conditions.

Family history. The risk of suffering a stroke is greater.