Headline: Stroke Awareness Month: Heart and Stroke Foundation Urges Canadians to Recognize Risks and Reduce Stroke Incidence
As Stroke Month unfolds this June, nearly 900,000 Canadians grapple with the life-altering effects of stroke, a condition that disrupts blood flow to the brain and damages vital brain cells. The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada aims to educate the public on stroke risk factors and debunk prevalent myths surrounding this serious health issue.
Dr. Nishita Singh, a stroke neurologist and assistant professor at the University of Manitoba, emphasizes that while age, genetics, and gender contribute to stroke risk, lifestyle choices play a pivotal role. Alarmingly, a 2023 poll revealed that 70% of Canadians lack awareness of the factors that lead to strokes and heart diseases.
"Understanding your risk and managing it with healthy habits can significantly lower the chance of a stroke—up to 80% of strokes are preventable," Singh asserts. Among her five key recommendations are:
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Stay Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of exercise weekly. Even starting with just 2,000 steps a day can foster significant health benefits.
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Quit Smoking: Smoking contributes to clot formation and artery narrowing, increasing stroke risk. Singh encourages incremental changes for those looking to quit.
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Limit Alcohol Intake: Current guidelines suggest no more than two drinks per week, with many experts advocating for total abstinence for optimal heart health.
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Eat Healthy: Focus on natural, whole foods such as leafy greens and limit processed foods, red meat, and fried items.
- Recognize Stroke Symptoms: The FAST acronym—Face, Arms, Speech, Time—serves as a vital reminder to act swiftly.
As the Foundation seeks to empower Canadians, it also urges awareness of the signs of stroke and the importance of embracing a healthier lifestyle.
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