Women and Stroke

Caring for myself protects the future of everyone I care about, including my own.
Group of diverse women smiling

As a woman you are a lot of things to a lot of people. You are busy. You are stressed. You are strong. You are irreplaceable. You are a caretaker. But do you care for yourself as well as you do others?

You might have unique risk factors that put you at a higher risk for stroke, including pregnancy or menopause or being a woman of color.

I rise for tomorrow by defeating stroke today. Because losing even one woman to stroke is one too many.

Stroke is the No. 3 cause of death in women and kills more women than men. In fact, one in five women will have a stroke.

The good news is that most strokes can be prevented. Here are some tips:
  • Evaluate your risk factors for stroke. Some risk factors are controllable and treatable, while others aren’t. It’s important to understand your risk.
  • Know your blood pressure and keep it in a healthy range. High blood pressure is the No. 1 preventable cause of stroke.
  • Talk to your health care professional about ways to improve your well-being and help prevent stroke.
  • Learn how to spot a stroke F.A.S.T. If you see Face drooping, Arm weakness or Speech difficulty, it’s Time to call 911.

Check In & Check Up for Your Health with Sybil Wilkes

Sybil Wilkes is a long time health advocate who understands that whole body wellness can help you feel stronger, healthier and mentally sharp—and it can also reduce your stroke risk. By launching Check In & Check Up for Your Health, she will galvanize community partners to inform and empower the African American community for better health practices and outcomes.