An analysis of the Framingham Study, published in Stroke in 2006, estimated that a middle-aged woman’s remaining lifetime risk of stroke is about 1 in 5, compared with 1 in 6 for men. This risk stayed similar at ages 55, 65 and 75.
Why the risk is higher for women
One important reason is likely women’s longer life expectancy, since stroke risk rises with age. This makes stroke a particularly important women’s health topic, even though the public more often associates it with men.
What this means for you
- Know the signs of stroke: sudden facial drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty. If you see them, call emergency services immediately.
- Have your blood pressure checked regularly: it is one of the most important risk factors for stroke.
- Exercise, not smoking and a healthy diet protect both the heart and the brain.
Sources
- Seshadri S., Beiser A., Kelly-Hayes M., Kase C. S., Au R., Kannel W. B., Wolf P. A. (2006). The lifetime risk of stroke: estimates from the Framingham Study. Stroke, 37(2), 345–350. doi:10.1161/01.STR.0000199613.38911.b2