Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability and death in the United States, but many strokes can be prevented before they happen. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that up to 80% of strokes may be preventable through healthy lifestyle changes, medical care, and management of underlying risk factors.

Because stroke risk often develops gradually over time, many people may not realize they are at increased risk until a serious medical event occurs. Conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, and heart disease can quietly damage blood vessels for years before stroke symptoms appear.

Understanding your stroke risk factors — and taking steps to address them early — can play an important role in protecting your long-term brain and cardiovascular health.

Looking to better understand your stroke risk?

Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare offers stroke risk assessments, neurological evaluations, and comprehensive stroke care for patients across the Mid-South. Use our Find a Provider tool to connect with a healthcare provider or learn more about stroke prevention and treatment services available through Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare.

What are the biggest risk factors for stroke?

Stroke risk is influenced by a combination of non-modifiable risk factors (those you cannot change) and modifiable risk factors (those that can often be improved through medical care or lifestyle changes).

Some of the most common stroke risk factors include:

• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Smoking or tobacco use
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes or insulin resistance
• Obesity and physical inactivity
• Atrial fibrillation (AFib) and other heart conditions
• Excessive alcohol use
• Family history of stroke or cardiovascular disease
• Older age, though stroke can occur in younger adults as well

While age and family history may increase risk, many of the leading contributors to stroke are manageable with preventive care and ongoing monitoring.

Why is high blood pressure closely linked to stroke?

High blood pressure is considered the leading preventable risk factor for stroke. Over time, uncontrolled blood pressure can damage and weaken blood vessels throughout the body, including those supplying blood to the brain.

This damage to blood vessels increases the risk of both:

• Ischemic stroke, caused by a blocked blood vessel
• Hemorrhagic stroke, caused by bleeding in the brain

Because high blood pressure often causes no noticeable symptoms, many people may not realize their numbers are elevated until complications develop.

“Many stroke risk factors develop quietly over time, especially high blood pressure. Routine screenings and consistent follow-up care can make a meaningful difference in identifying risk early and helping patients prevent future complications.” – Kalanda Rankin, RN, Stroke Coordinator at Methodist North Hospital

Can younger adults be at risk for stroke?

Yes. Although stroke risk increases with age, younger adults can also experience strokes — particularly when underlying cardiovascular risk factors are present.

High blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol, and certain heart rhythm disorders can increase stroke risk even in adults in their 30s, 40s, and 50s. Some people may also have inherited conditions or family history factors that increase vascular risk earlier in life.

Because stroke is often associated with older adults, younger individuals may delay preventive care or overlook early warning signs.

Preventive screenings, regular medical checkups, and awareness of personal risk factors can help to identify concerns before a stroke occurs.

What lifestyle changes can help prevent stroke?

Many stroke prevention strategies focus on improving cardiovascular health and reducing strain on blood vessels over time.

Healthy lifestyle habits that may help lower stroke risk include:

• Managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels
• Quitting smoking or avoiding tobacco products
• Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
• Engaging in regular physical activity
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Limiting excessive alcohol consumption
• Taking prescribed medications as directed
• Prioritizing consistent sleep and stress management

Even small, sustainable changes can improve long-term health and reduce cumulative stroke risk over time.

“We want patients to understand that stroke prevention is not based on one perfect lifestyle decision. Small, consistent steps — like controlling blood pressure and cholesterol, staying active, and keeping regular medical appointments — can have a significant impact on an individual’s long-term stroke risk.” – William Zachary, RN, Stroke Coordinator at Methodist South Hospital

How do healthcare providers assess stroke risk?

Stroke risk assessment often includes evaluating a patient’s medical history, lifestyle factors, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood sugar, and family history.

Depending on a patient’s symptoms or risk profile, providers may also recommend:

• Routine blood pressure monitoring
• Cholesterol and diabetes screening
• Heart rhythm evaluation for atrial fibrillation
• Carotid artery imaging
• Cardiovascular or neurological evaluation

At Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, stroke and neurology teams work with patients to identify risk factors, recommend preventive strategies, and coordinate ongoing care when needed.

Why are regular checkups important for stroke prevention?

Many stroke risk factors can develop gradually without obvious symptoms. Routine medical visits can help identify issues such as elevated cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, or irregular heart rhythms before they lead to serious complications.

Preventive care also gives patients the opportunity to discuss family history, lifestyle habits, medication management, and changes in overall health with a trusted healthcare provider.

Early intervention is often one of the most effective ways to reduce stroke risk and support long-term brain and heart health.

Key takeaways

• Up to 80% of strokes may be preventable through healthy lifestyle changes and medical care.
• High blood pressure is the leading modifiable risk factor for stroke.
• Stroke can affect younger adults, especially when underlying risk factors are present.
• Smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, and atrial fibrillation can all increase stroke risk.
• Routine screenings, preventive care, and healthy lifestyle habits can help lower long-term stroke risk.

Take a proactive approach to stroke prevention

Stroke prevention starts with understanding your personal risk factors and taking steps to address them early. Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare offers comprehensive stroke care, neurological evaluations, preventive screenings, and stroke risk assessments for patients across the Mid-South. Learn more about stroke services, take the online Stroke Risk Assessment, or connect with a provider to discuss your stroke risk and prevention options.

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding stroke prevention and stroke risk. Last medically reviewed May 27, 2026.