Stroke

Each year, stroke accounts for more than 3,000 deaths in Missouri making stroke the third leading cause of death in the state. (MICA)  Stroke is also a leading cause of adult disability.  (National Stroke Association's Complete Guide to Stroke, 2003)

Missouri Stroke Data: DHSS Stroke Data Profile

Missouri Stroke Data by Region

Map of Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) Regions

What is STROKE?

A stroke, sometimes called a “brain attack,” occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted.  While a stroke is occurring, it is referred to as the acute phase of a stroke.  Brain cells in the immediate area begin to die because they stop getting the oxygen and nutrients they need to function.

As brain cells die, abilities controlled by that area of the brain are impaired.  The impact from a stroke ranges from mild to severe, and can include paralysis and impairments of function such as speech, movement, and memory.  Specific abilities lost or affected depend on the location of the stroke in the brain and the amount of damage the stroke caused.  (National Stroke Association's Complete Guide to Stroke, 2003)   

There are two major kinds of stroke.  The first, known as an ischemic stroke, is caused by a blood clot that blocks a blood vessel to the brain.  Approximately 84 percent of strokes are ischemic.  The second, known as a hemorrhagic stroke, is caused by a blood vessel in the brain that breaks or ruptures spilling blood into the brain.  (National Stroke Association's Complete Guide to Stroke, 2003)   

During the past several years, acute stroke treatment has experienced significant advances.  These advances place a huge emphasis on fast access to definitive care.    

It is important to get to the hospital fast if you suspect stroke. Time lost is brain lost.  Missourians need to recognize the signs of stroke.  Think F.A.S.T.

Interview on Stroke with Paul Pepper

Know the Warning Signs of Stroke:  Time Saved is a Life Saved

Conduct Your Own Stroke Awareness Worksite Project

The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS), Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Program is funded by a federal grant from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).   Visit the DHSS Heart Disease webpage at http://www.dhss.mo.gov/HeartDisease.

What can you do about your risk factors for STROKE?

It’s important to point out that risk factors are not absolutes, in that, if you have one or a combination of risk factors, it does not automatically mean you’ll have a stroke.   It does mean that you are more likely to have a stroke than if you didn’t have those risk factors. 

• Work with your health care provider to get and keep your blood pressure or high cholesterol under control.
• Don’t smoke.
• Be physically active (30 minutes or more) most, or all, days of the week. 
• Eat healthy.  Reduce fat intake and include fruits and vegetables in your daily diet.
• Maintain your recommended healthy weight.
• If you have diabetes, follow your health care provider’s treatment recommendations.