Prevalence and control of stroke risk factors in a South Florida population

To assess the prevalence and control of stroke risk factors in our South Florida service population.

We obtained data from the 2006-2010 Cleveland Clinic Florida annual "stroke prevention screening" questionnaires. Participants responded to questions regarding demographic information and stroke risk factors including pertinent comorbidity, alcohol consumption, and smoking. Onsite weight, height, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels were obtained. Our hospital's Director of Research did not identify any issues requiring formal institutional review board evaluation. Those with three or more modifiable risk factors breaching recommended targets met criteria for "poorly controlled."

There were 298 participants, average age: 62.5 years, 65% were females. 36.9% had hypercholesterolemia, 32.9% hypertension, 14.4% diabetes mellitus, 8% transient ischemic attack/stroke, 7% coronary artery disease, 5.7% atrial fibrillation, and 2.7% carotid artery disease. 81.8% had a BMI of 25 or more and 37.8% had inadequate exercise. 38.3% had elevated cholesterol levels, 26.4% had blood pressures of 140/90mmHg or more, 6% were smokers, and 2.1% had excessive alcohol intake. 29.1% of the composite sample met the criteria outlined for "poorly controlled" stroke risk factors.

Control of stroke risk factors especially obesity was worse compared to United States national data. Additionally, there is a higher prevalence of hypercholesterolemia and physical inactivity compared to statewide data. There is a definite need for local healthcare professionals to disseminate more stroke risk factor information. However, health promotion at the public policy or patient level should advocate personal responsibility especially pertaining to lifestyle and behavioral changes necessary for stroke prevention.