All too often, however, these resolutions fade as people with good intentions end up losing their resolve. Therefore, as several national health organizations renew their education programs, it's time to remind Americans of the risks of high blood pressure that can lead to strokes - the third leading cause of death in the U.S. National Stroke Awareness Month and National High Blood Pressure Education Month, both in May, are themes to remind us that 50 million people in the U.S. have high blood pressure. Yet only about two-thirds are aware they have the condition. For those with high blood pressure, the risk of stroke is real. Many more face permanent health problems or long and costly rehabilitation.
Some risk factors are uncontrollable, such as advanced age, diabetes and family history of stroke.
However, there are controllable factors, including high blood pressure, heart diseases and lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive consumption of alcohol and being overweight. In addition to checking blood pressure and cholesterol levels, health experts recommend proper dietary habits. One guideline from NSA suggests that by cutting down on sodium and fat in your diet, you may be able to lower your blood pressure and, most importantly, lower your risk of stroke. Sodium is essential to certain body functions, such as maintaining fluid levels, but many people overdo consumption. Following a reduced sodium diet often is a challenge because so many processed foods we eat are high in sodium.