For Immediate Release:
March 9, 2006

Contact:
Nanci Gonder, Office of Public Information
573-751-6062

Death of baseball Hall of Famer Kirby Puckett underscores danger of stroke at any age
Reducing risk factors can help prevent cardiovascular disease

The recent death of legendary baseball player Kirby Puckett from a stroke is a solemn reminder that cardiovascular disease can strike at any age. Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States and in Missouri.

“The untimely death of Kirby Puckett puts a very real face on this crucial health issue,” said Judy Alexiou, manager of the Missouri Department of Health’s Heart Disease and Stroke Program. “We are reminded that stroke can strike at any age.”

Puckett, 45, was hugely popular with baseball fans and helped the Minnesota Twins win two World Series championships in 1987 and 1997. His career was cut short after 12 seasons by glaucoma. Described as a great player and a great person, he was inducted into baseball’s Hall of Fame in 2001 – the first year he was eligible.

According to the National Stroke Association, stroke is one of the most preventable of all life-threatening health conditions.

“Stroke is one of Missouri’s most serious health concerns, but much can be done to prevent it,” Alexiou said. “It is vital that we know the risk factors and symptoms of stroke to protect ourselves and our loved ones.”

Factors that put a person at greater risk of having a stroke include:
· High blood pressure
· High cholesterol
· Diabetes
· Poor nutrition
· Physical inactivity
· Obesity

In addition, African Americans are more likely to suffer a stroke. They have almost twice the risk of having a first stroke when compared to whites, according to the American Stroke Association. African Americans have higher rates of several stroke risk factors – tobacco use, obesity and high blood pressure.

Although the prevalence of high blood pressure in African Americans in the United States is among the highest in the world, many African Americans are unaware of their increased risk of stroke, according to the American Stroke Association.

Because stroke most often occurs quickly and unexpectedly, it is crucial to recognize the symptoms of stroke and respond immediately, Alexiou said.

Stroke symptoms include:

• Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
• Sudden confusion or trouble speaking or understanding
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
• Sudden severe headache with no known cause

When someone experiences stroke symptoms, immediate attention from a health care professional is necessary. Receiving treatment within three hours can greatly reduce the risk of permanent damage or death from stroke, according to the state health department.

To help prevent stroke, Missourians should follow their health care provider’s advice if they have high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes; not smoke; maintain a healthy weight; make smart food choices; and be physically active.

More information about stroke can be found at www.dhss.mo.gov/Stroke/ or StrokeAssociation.org.