World Stroke Day: Ways you can reduce your risk!

Zee Media Bureau/Salome Phelamei

A stroke can be defined as a 'brain attack'. Stroke, also known as cerebrovascular accident (CVA) or cerebrovascular insult (CVI), occurs when blood flow to an area of brain is cut off. It can happen to anyone at any time.

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An estimated 17 million people die of cardiovascular diseases, particularly heart attacks and strokes, every year, as per WHO data.

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Worldwide, stroke kills 3 million women and 2.5 million men every year. It is the leading cause of death above the age of 60 years, and the fifth leading cause in people aged 15 to 59 years.

However, you can help prevent stroke by making healthy choices and managing any health conditions you may have such as by-

• Eating a healthy diet, including plenty of fruits, vegetables and foods that are low in sodium, saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol.
• Maintaining a healthy weight because being overweight can increase your stroke risk.
• Being physically active to avoid access weight gain as well as to lower your cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
• Not smoking because cigarette smoking greatly increases your risk for stroke.
• Limiting your alcohol intake as excessive alcohol consumption can increase risk of stroke potentially - to 2 drinks a day for men and 1 drink a day for women.
• Getting adequate sleep.

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World Stroke Day is being celebrated every year on October 29 to raise awareness about the condition and ensure better care and support for survivors.