Women’s unique risks
“39 year olds don’t have strokes. But they do.”
Jen Bogart
Read Jen’s storyPrevention is key
Prevention starts with knowing your risk. Nine in ten Canadians have at least one risk factor for stroke or heart disease. Almost 80% of premature stroke and heart disease can be prevented through healthy behaviors. That means that habits like eating healthy, being active and living smoke free, have a big impact on your health.
Lifestyle risk factors
Many risk factors are within your power to control. Find out what they are. Learn the steps to lower your risk.
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Conditions that are risk factors
Learn more about health conditions that can contribute to stroke.
Risk factors you cannot control
Sex
Your risk of heart disease and stroke increases after menopause. ... Read more
Age
The older you are, the higher your risk of stroke.
Family and Medical History
If you have a close relative who has experienced stroke or TIA at an early age, you are at an increased risk.
South Asian & African heritage
People of African or South Asian heritage are more likely to have high blood pressure, diabetes or other risk factors for stroke at a younger age.
Indigenous heritage
First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples are more likely to have high blood pressure and diabetes. They are at greater risk of stroke than the general population.
Personal circumstances
Personal circumstances and environmental factors have an influence on your health. This includes things such as access to healthy food, safe drinking water, health services and social services.
Help Us
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Put stroke research on the fast track.
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Fund innovative new treatments.
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Ensure survivors have the rehab needed to regain lost skills.
Preventing stroke
Develop habits that will reduce your risk. Pick a goal that is important to you. Tackle one step at a time.
Eat a healthy diet
Eating lots of veggies, cooking at home, limiting processed foods...these are all habits that protect your health. Explore recipes, tips and more.
More on healthy eating
Stay active
Move more. Walk, rake leaves, play a sport….Find ways to be active in your daily life. Get ideas and tips from the experts.
More on staying active
Reduce stress
Know your stressors and get expert strategies to manage them effectively.
More on reducing stress
Maintain a healthy weight
Learn the lifelong habits to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
More on healthy weight