Nine out of 10 stroke survivors would warn their younger self to make healthy lifestyle changes, a Stroke Association survey has found.
The publication of the findings marks Stroke Prevention Day on Friday January 14.
More than four out of five stroke survivors surveyed had not realised that they were at risk.
However, since having a stroke, almost nine out of 10 had made lifestyle changes that could prevent a second stroke.
Juliet Bouverie OBE, Chief Executive at the Stroke Association said:
“We know not all strokes are avoidable, but as many as nine out of ten strokes could be prevented as they are linked to things you can change or manage.
“Many people simply don’t realise they are at risk and that’s something that we as a charity desperately want to put right.
“The effects of a stroke can be life-changing for you and your family, so why not do all you can to avoid one yourself?
For this year’s Stroke Prevention Day, the charity is urging everyone to make one small lifestyle change to reduce their risk.
The campaign is backed by Anna Richardson, host of TV’s Naked Attraction and Changing Rooms.
Richardson vowed to get healthier after her father had a series of strokes.
The presenter said:
“Sadly, my dad has had a number of strokes and seeing him have to cope with the effects has definitely made me more aware of my own mortality and has given me a real determination to stay as fit and healthy as possible.
“Unfortunately, both mine and my brother’s cholesterol is on the high side and knowing that my dad’s high blood pressure was likely one of the biggest factors for his strokes, I am so careful about keeping my blood pressure in check.
“To further help reduce my risk I have a checklist I like to try to stick to, reducing salt in my cooking, limiting alcohol, trying to avoid too much saturated fat, and I aim to do 30 minutes of exercise every day – be that walking, cycling or maybe some yoga.”
Almost half of the stroke survivors surveyed would urge their younger self to reduce their stress levels.
Other recommended changes include monitoring blood pressure (37 per cent), eat more healthily (32 per cent) and drinking less alcohol (24 per cent).
Almost a third of stroke survivors said they would exercise more and an ideal way to motivate yourself is to sign up for the Stride for Stroke challenge.
Find out about this and the other things you can do at www.stroke.org.uk/stroke-prevention-day. Money raised will help the charity’s work supporting stroke survivors and carers across the UK.
