Combating the Rising Stroke Risk [Video]

Stroke is already the second leading cause of death worldwide. Now a new report is predicting a 50% increase in stroke death by 2050. “The Lancet Commission looks at data from across the globe and is predicting this really dire number and so we need to do everything we can to offset that risk,” said Cardiologist Dr. Malissa Wood.

The study said stroke incidence is increasing in those under 55 years old. It also found those of lower socioeconomic status face a higher risk of stroke. Lee Health is working to address that gap through community outreach programs, mobile medicine, remote patient monitoring and more. “Access to health care is incredibly important, and education about what can be done to prevent heart disease is also important. So, Lee Health has really made a commitment to take care of everyone in our community and to get that education and that health care to the communities that need it most,” said Dr. Wood.

The good news is that prevention is possible. “80% of heart attacks and strokes can be prevented if appropriate steps are taken in advance.” That means a diet low in saturated fats and high in fresh veggies, fruits, and lean meats. Also getting regular exercise, quality sleep, and managing stress, blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes. “We live in a place where you can be outdoors 365 days a year and try to encourage people to walk regularly, follow a healthy diet, and communicate regularly with their health care team if they’re having new symptoms,” said Dr. Wood.

Working to prevent stroke and keep our community happy and healthy at home. You can find the full report here: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laneur/article/PIIS1474-4422(23)00277-6/fulltext

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Lee Health in Fort Myers, FL is the largest network of health care facilities in Southwest Florida and is highly respected for its expertise, innovation and quality of care. For more than 100 years, we’ve been providing our community with personalized preventative health services and primary care to highly specialized care services and robotic assisted surgeries.

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