Stroke ranks as the third leading killer in the United States. A stroke can be devastating to individuals and their families, robbing them of their independence. It is the most common cause of adult disability. Each year more than 500,000 Americans have a stroke, with about 145,000 dying from stroke-related causes. Return to Prevention Menu .
Brain cells can die from decreased blood flow and the resulting lack of oxygen.
While not usually fatal, a blockage of a blood vessel in the brain or neck is the most frequent cause of stroke and is responsible for about 80 percent of strokes. Bleeding into the brain or the spaces surrounding the brain causes the second type of stroke, called hemorrhagic stroke. Return to Prevention Menu . Warning signs are clues your body sends that your brain is not receiving enough oxygen. Sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm, or leg on one side of the body.