Influence of Age and Health Behaviors on Stroke Risk: Lessons from Longitudinal Studies

摘要

Stroke is a major cause of death and serious neurological disability among elders in the United States today. The most effective means available for reducing the burden of stroke involves risk factor modification. Given the growing numbers of elderly adults at risk for stroke, it is increasingly important to identify those health behaviors that can produce significant change. Ongoing longitudinal studies have identified several behavioral factors that have been shown to improve overall health and reduce the risk of stroke. These include effective management of hypertension, cessation of cigarette smoking for those who smoke, and maintaining a healthy diet and active physical lifestyle. Since modification of risk factors remains a primary intervention for effective prevention of stroke, community-based studies that address and institute stroke prevention strategies have the best opportunity to reduce or postpone the devastating impact of stroke.