Australia issues new rules to reduce stroke risk, the third leading cause of death in the country.

According to new guidelines, the majority of strokes can be prevented with the right measures. These guidelines aim to assist both individuals and their doctors in reducing the risk of stroke. In Australia, stroke is a major cause of death and was the third leading cause in 2023, following heart attacks and dementia. The Stroke Foundation reports that 80% of these deaths could have been prevented.

The American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, recently released new guidelines for stroke prevention - the first in 10 years. These guidelines reflect a better understanding of who is at risk for strokes and why, as well as new medication options that can help reduce the risk. The key to lowering the risk of strokes is also the key to preventing a host of other health problems - maintaining a healthy diet, staying active, and avoiding smoking.

Unfortunately, these lifestyle changes are not always easy to maintain. Dr. Sean Duke, a stroke specialist at the University of Mississippi Medical Centre, points to societal factors such as sedentary lifestyles and the availability of cheap, unhealthy food as major contributors to the difficulty in sustaining healthy habits. He states, "Our world is stacked against us."

So what exactly is a stroke? It occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts. This deprives the brain of oxygen, causing brain damage that can lead to difficulties with thinking, speaking, and walking, and in severe cases, death.

Maintaining a healthy diet can help control multiple risk factors for strokes, such as high cholesterol, high blood sugar, and obesity. The American Heart Association recommends following a Mediterranean-style diet, which includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and olive oil. They also suggest limiting red meat and other sources of saturated fat, and instead, getting protein from sources like beans, nuts, poultry, fish, and seafood. Additionally, avoiding highly processed foods and sugary drinks can help reduce calorie intake and keep weight in check.

Staying physically active is another important factor in preventing strokes. Even just 10 minutes of light activity a day can significantly reduce the risk. Dr. Cheryl Bushnell, a neurologist from Wake Forest University School of Medicine, explains that regular exercise can help lower blood pressure, a major risk factor for strokes. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week.

When it comes to exercise, it doesn't matter how you do it - whether it's going to the gym, taking a walk or run in your neighborhood, or using machines at home. The important thing is to find an activity that you enjoy and can stick to.

In addition to lifestyle changes, there are now new medication options available to help reduce the risk of strokes. These drugs, such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound, have been approved by regulators in the US and some in Australia. The new guidelines recommend that doctors consider prescribing these drugs to individuals with obesity or diabetes.

However, experts caution that medication alone is not enough. A healthy diet and regular exercise are still crucial in maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the risk of strokes.

The new guidelines also include recommendations for doctors to screen patients for other factors that could increase their risk of strokes. This includes factors such as sex, gender, and non-medical factors like economic stability, access to healthcare, discrimination, and racism. By identifying these factors, doctors can provide resources and support to help individuals reduce their risk.

Some of the new guidelines also focus on specific populations, such as women. Doctors are now recommended to screen for conditions that could increase a woman's risk for stroke, such as high blood pressure during pregnancy or early menopause.

Knowing the symptoms of a stroke is crucial in seeking timely medical help. The most common symptoms include weakness in the face or arms and difficulty speaking. Time is of the essence when it comes to treating a stroke, as brain damage can occur rapidly. To help remember the signs, stroke experts have created the acronym FAST - F for face, A for arm, S for speech, and T for time. If you suspect that you or a loved one may be having a stroke, it's important to call emergency services right away.

It's important to note that this article is not intended as medical advice and individuals should always consult a medical professional for personalized advice. With the right measures, strokes can be prevented, and the new guidelines provide valuable information for individuals and doctors to help reduce the risk of this serious condition.

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