Stroke Risk Factors that Cannot Be Changed

There are several risk factors for stroke that cannot be changed, including:

1. Age: The risk of stroke increases with age, especially after the age of 55.
2. Gender: Men have a higher risk of stroke than women, although women have a higher risk of stroke during pregnancy and in the postpartum period.
3. Race and ethnicity: African Americans, Hispanics, and Asian Americans have a higher risk of stroke than Caucasians.
4. Family history: A family history of stroke or TIA can increase your risk of stroke.
5. Prior stroke or TIA: If you have had a stroke or TIA in the past, you are at higher risk of having another one.

While these risk factors cannot be changed, it is still important to be aware of them and take steps to reduce your overall risk of stroke. This includes making lifestyle changes to reduce modifiable risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing chronic conditions such as diabetes can also help reduce your risk. Additionally, if you have a family history of stroke or have had a stroke or TIA in the past, it is important to talk to your doctor about strategies to manage your risk.