Stroke

The largest study of its kind reports that married people are less likely to suffer from a range of cardiovascular problems, from heart disease to stroke to circulatory issues. In an analysis of data on more than 3.5 million Americans, average age 64, whod undergone health screenings by a private company, married people were 5% less likely to have cardiovascular problems than singles. Compared to married participants, widowed people were at 3% greater risk and divorced people at 5% more risk. The correlation between marital status and cardiovascular health was strongest for those under age 50.

Two new studies suggest that one simple way to reduce your risk of suffering a stroke is to lace up your walking shoes and get moving. In a British study of nearly 3,500 initially healthy men ages 60-80, those who spent time walking were less likely to suffer a stroke, with risk declining as walking time increased. In another new finding, reported at a conference, women who walked or engaged in other moderate-intensity exercise were 20% less likely to suffer a stroke.

Contrary to long-standing concerns about the stimulant effect of caffeine sparking atrial fibrillation, a new analysis concludes that its unlikely habitual caffeine intake from coffee and other dietary sources increases risk. In fact, the pooled analysis found that atrial fibrillation risk fell with increasing caffeine intake.

While eating the traditional fare of Mediterranean countries promotes heart health, consuming fried foods, sweet tea and other typical foods of the Southern United States has the opposite effect, sharply increasing the risk of stroke.

An expert review of 537 studies on periodontal disease and risk of heart attack or stroke

What should you do if you think someone is suffering a stroke? The right answer is

Citrus Linked to Lower Likelihood of Stroke. Oranges and other citrus fruit and juices may provide a modest protection against strokes, according

An overall healthy diet, such as the DASH diet or the dietary pattern found in Mediterranean countries

A diet rich in antioxidants, especially from fruits and vegetables, could help reduce your risk

Getting more potassium in your diet may help protect you against the most common type of stroke