[Secondary prevention after stroke--lifestyle factors]

Patients with a stroke are at high risk of new cardiovascular events and secondary prevention is therefore essential. Patients with ischemic stroke should receive treatment with statins targeting a total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol below 4.5 and 2.5 mmol/l, respectively. Efforts should be made to motivate patients for smoking cessation and a physical active lifestyle. A diet low in salt and fat with a high content of fruit, vegetables, full-corn products and fish is recommended. There is no evidence that a low to moderate alcohol intake is harmful.