Controllable Unhealthy Behaviors, Hypertension and Stroke

The most common type of stroke is ischemic stroke, where blood vessels to the brain are blocked or damaged causing the brain not to get an adequate amount of blood. According to the CDC, controllable risk factors for hypertension include an unhealthy diet (containing too much salt for example), not getting enough exercise, being obese, drinking too much alcohol and using tobacco. More than 60% of all strokes are caused by hypertension. And a recent study was done to uncover the relationship between controllable unhealthy lifestyle behaviors and the risk of the first ischemic stroke in middle-aged or elderly persons diagnosed with hypertension.

As part of the study, the researchers in China analyzed health data for 629 individuals with hypertension. For the study, hypertension was declared when the systolic pressure was greater than 130 mmHg, and the diastolic pressure was greater than 80 mmHg (or >130/80). All study participants were at least 45 years of age. The researchers found that once an individual had hypertension, there was a strong relationship between the number of unhealthy lifestyle behaviors a person engaged in and the first ischemic stroke the individual experienced. Statistical analysis showed that engaging in 5 unhealthy lifestyle behaviors raised the risk of a first-ischemic stroke within 5 years after a hypertension diagnosis.

To reduce the risk of stroke, the researchers suggest that an individual should control all unhealthy lifestyle behaviors. But if it is not possible to control all unhealthy lifestyle behaviors, the individual should first increase physical activity. The individual should then control his or her weight. And, next, the individual should quit smoking (if they smoke). The individual should then manage alcohol intake and follow a healthy diet. Following these lifestyle changes can be beneficial to the individual, and assist the individual’s doctor in his or her efforts to help the individual manage hypertension, thus, lowering the risk of a first-ischemic stroke.

Indeed, healthcare providers should work with patients to help them engage in physical activity, follow a healthy diet, control weight and quit smoking. Not only will this lower the risk of hypertension and stroke, it will improve overall health.

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