Danger! Risk of stroke: The 7 best tips for prevention!

Danger! Risk of stroke: The 7 best tips for prevention!

October 29, 2025 is World Stroke Day, and attention is shifting to a more serious issue that affects around 270,000 people in Germany every year, whether old or young. Börde district reports that over 700 people per day experience a stroke, a sudden onset of circulatory disruption to the brain that requires rapid action.

The two main forms of stroke are cerebral infarction, which occurs due to a vascular occlusion, and cerebral hemorrhage, which is caused by the bursting of a vessel. Both lead to an undersupply of oxygen and nutrients to the brain. This is precisely why it is so important to recognize the symptoms quickly. With the so-called FAST test, laypeople can easily check whether someone may have suffered a stroke. This includes checking facial expressions, arms and speech.

Identify risk factors

Not all risk factors are in your own hands. Some, such as heredity, age and environmental conditions, cannot be influenced. But there are many serious factors that you can influence yourself. High blood pressure is the main culprit that damages the walls of blood vessels. Caring for relatives shows that being overweight also increases the risk two to three times, especially if you have abdominal fat. Women are affected if their abdominal circumference is over 80 cm; in men the risk is increased from 94 cm.

But diabetes is also a serious storm in the risk park. Over 75% of patients with diabetes mellitus die from a stroke or heart attack. An unhealthy lifestyle, characterized by lack of exercise, excessive alcohol consumption and especially smoking, doubles the risk of a stroke. Atrial fibrillation, a treatable heart rhythm disorder, can also lead to dangerous blood clots, further increasing your risk.

Live healthily, reduce risk

But how can you actively counteract it? ADAC recommends going for regular health checks, even if you feel well. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean meat can make a big difference. You should also exercise at least three times a week for at least 30 minutes. This can also be done in a relaxed way when you go for a walk in the park or while cycling along the beautiful Rhine promenade.

Anyone who smokes should seriously consider quitting. Courses or nicotine replacement therapies often help here. Managing stress is also important because prolonged stress has many negative effects on the body and increases the risk of stroke by up to 30%.

Especially before World Stroke Day, it is crucial to be aware of the risks and take preventative measures. Be informed, live healthily and help others do the same - for themselves and for the community.