Stroke: the key risk factors

This is the first in a series of two articles focusing on stroke and transient ischaemic attacks (TIAs) in adults. The current article will identify and discuss the key risk factors in stroke. Stroke risk factors have great similarity to other cardiovascular events. Identifying and addressing the more preventable lifestyle risk factors could positively impact upon the reduction and prevention of strokes and TIAs. Improved understanding of these key risk factors is vital among the public and health professionals. Arguably, this is an important part of the role of all health professionals, whether in a primary/community, secondary or tertiary health-care setting. Individuals are often only diagnosed with hypertension and/or diabetes, for example, on acute admission for suspected stroke, or during outline assessment such as when registering with a GP practice. The next article in this series will concentrate on acute stroke and TIA assessment and treatment.