Sharon Stroke Highlights Risk of Secondary Stroke
The recent news of Ariel Sharon's massive second stroke is
indeed a tragedy and highlights the risk of secondary stroke for all those who have suffered a previous stroke.
"Not all second strokes can be prevented," said Kimberley Dowds, Associate Director, Stroke Recovery Canada. "However,
this tragic event highlights how important it is for all stroke survivors to follow their doctor's advice to reduce their
risk of a second stroke."
Some part of the risk for stroke or heart attack is genetic, but there are things stroke survivors can do to reduce their
chances of having another stroke such as quitting smoking, lowering their blood pressure, and staying active.
Approximately 5% of stroke survivors will have another stroke within one month. About 25% to 40% will have another stroke
within five years. Sharon's massive second stroke occurred less than three weeks after his first mini-stroke on December 18.
Stroke Recovery Canada has published a brochure providing information to stroke survivors and their family members about
how to prevent the next stroke.
"This brochure is an invaluable tool for those wanting to do all that one can to prevent a second stroke," says Dowds.
