What are the factors that increase the risk of stroke?
The risk factors for acute stroke can be classified into two categories: modifiable and non-modifiable factors.
- Non-modifiable factors, such as genetics, age, and family history, are aspects that cannot be controlled or changed.
- However, it is essential to focus on modifiable factors. Typically, elderly individuals aged 60 and above are at a higher risk of experiencing strokes. However, it is becoming increasingly common to see individuals between the ages of 30 and 40 also affected by strokes. This can be attributed to lifestyle choices such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and sedentary habits prevalent among the younger generation. These factors can lead to conditions like high blood pressure, being overweight, diabetes, and an unhealthy diet, all of which increase the likelihood of stroke. The good news is that these lifestyle habits can be modified easily, offering an opportunity to mitigate the risk of stroke.
