Risk and prevention

Prevention 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.

 

  • Unhealthy diet

    Unhealthy diet

  • Physical inactivity

    Physical inactivity

  • Unhealthy weight

    Unhealthy weight

  • Smoking

    Smoking

  • Stress

    Stress

  • Excessive alcohol & drug abuse

    Excessive alcohol & drug abuse

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

  • Put stroke research on the fast track.

  • Fund innovative new treatments.

  • Ensure survivors have the rehab needed to regain lost skills.

Donate What we do

Preventing stroke

Develop habits that will reduce your risk. Pick a goal  that is important to you. Tackle one step at a time.