Stroke: The Nation's Number 3 Killer
Studies have shown that African Americans are more that twice likely to have a stroke that any other ethnic group. Three key reasons for this include:
1. African Americans suffer more from hypertension. Approximately 1 in 3 African Americans live with high blood pressure.
2. African Americans have a high rate of diabetes.
3. The genetic condition sickle cell anemia.
All three factors can easily contribute to cardiovascular disease.
According to the American Stroke Association, a stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain gets blocked or burst. This results in oxygen not being able to get to that part of the brain where the blood vessel has burst, and with no oxygen the brain tissue dies. This is what is known as a bleeding or hemorrhagic stroke. Another type of stroke is ischemic. These are clots, blocked arteries in the brain.
A May 28, 2007 NY Times article states that many hospitals here in the United States can not afford to have neurologist on call to diagnose strokes. Another financial problem is not being able to afford M.R.I machines in emergency rooms which are crucial in diagnosing strokes. The article quotes Northwestern University neurology professor Dr. Mark J Alberts response to these startling facts:
"I label this a national tragedy or a national embarrassment. I know of no disease that is as common or as serious as stroke and where you basically have one therapy and it's only used in 3 to 4 percent of patients. That's like saying you only treat 3 to 4 percent of patients with bacterial pneumonia with antibiotics."
Bottom line, to reduce your risk for stroke, having a healthy diet is essential. Lower foods high in saturated fats, less salt and limiting intake of high calorie foods are recommended by the American Heart Association.
Monitor your blood pressure. Your doctor may prescribe medication to keep it stable if diet does not help lower it.
Exercise daily. Make sure you check with your physician before starting any exercise regimen.
Lastly, stop smoking! For information on how to quit: http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=3004354
SOURCE:
Kolata, G (2007/05/28). Health . Retrieved May 28, 2007, from nytimes.com Web site: http://www.nytimes.com/2007/05/28/health/28stroke.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1
Published by Lorraine Hayden
I'm a freelance writer, wife and mother. View profile
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