Stroke Is No Longer Your Grandfather's Disease: Twice As Likely To Strike Middle-Aged Women

Main Category: Stroke
Also Included In: Women's Health / Gynecology
Article Date: 28 Jun 2007 - 1:00 PDT

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After a five year study of the sexes, UCLA medical researchers found that middle aged women between 45 and 54 are 2.3 times more likely to have a stroke than men the same age. And another study found that three out of every five deaths from stroke were among women.

Researchers found that waist size and coronary artery disease are predictors of stroke risk among middle-aged women. Obesity in America is increasing and women are particularly susceptible to the adverse effects of abominable obesity. Several other factors are known to significantly increase a woman's risk for stroke: birth control pills, menopause, high blood pressure and migraine headaches.

For years, National Stroke Association has focused its stroke awareness efforts on women.

"Stroke uniquely impacts women, therefore it is crucial they learn about stroke warning signs and understand that stroke symptoms are a medical emergency. This research and its findings further support the need for women to become aware of their individual stroke risks and take charge of their health."
Jim Baranski, National Stroke Association CEO

A National Stroke Association poll found that 1/3 of women could not recognize even one stroke symptom. This simple test helps women learn and detect stroke symptoms and Act F.A.S.T.:

F = FACE Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
A = ARMS Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
S = SPEECH Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Does the speech sound slurred or strange?
T = TIME If you observe any of these signs, it's time to call 9-1-1 or get to the nearest stroke center or hospital.

About National Stroke Association

Established in 1984, National Stroke Association is the only national organization that focuses 100 percent of its efforts on stroke. National Stroke Association achieves its mission to lower the incidence and impact of stroke by developing compelling community outreach programs, calling for continued improvement in the quality of stroke patient care, and educating both healthcare professionals and the general public about stroke.

By Lindsey Larson

National Stroke Associaton

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