June 15, 2020

Smoking a Big Stroke Risk for Blacks

WEDNESDAY, June 10, 2020 -- Smoking carries a host of health risks, and now a new study shows the habit significantly increases black Americans' risk of stroke.

The research included more than 5,300 participants, aged 21 to 84, from the tri-county area around Jackson, Miss. In the final analysis, 546 were current smokers, 781 were past smokers, and 3,083 never smoked.

June 4, 2020

Spirituality Helps Stroke Survivors, Caregivers Bounce Back

THURSDAY, May 28, 2020 -- Could a higher power help stroke recovery? People who are spiritual may be better able to deal with stroke-related disability, new research suggests.

The Italian study linked spirituality -- be it through religion or simply a strong sense of purpose and connection to others -- to a lower risk of depression for people with low to moderate disability after a stroke and their caregivers. Spirituality also appeared to improve the quality of life for both.

May 19, 2020

Heavy Drinking Tied to Raised Stroke Risk, Study Finds

TUESDAY, May 5, 2020 -- Lots of boozing might increase your risk for a stroke, Swedish researchers report.

Heavy alcohol use can triple your risk for peripheral artery disease, a narrowing of arteries that results in reduced blood flow, usually to the legs. It can also increase your risk for stroke by 27%. There's also evidence of a link to coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation and aortic aneurysm, the researchers said.

May 5, 2020

During Coronavirus Pandemic, Don't Ignore Symptoms of Heart Attack, Stroke

THURSDAY, April 30, 2020 -- Fewer heart attack and stroke patients are seeking medical care since the coronavirus pandemic began and doctors are wondering why.

It's possible that during the pandemic, patients are ignoring symptoms that would otherwise worry them, doctors from Cedars-Sinai in Los Angeles suggest.