Lifestyle Modification for Secondary Stroke Prevention

Of nearly 800 000 strokes that occur annually, 23% are recurrent events. Risk for disability and mortality is higher following a recurrent stroke than following a first-time stroke, which makes secondary stroke prevention a priority. Many risk factors for stroke are modifiable and amenable to improvement through lifestyle modification. Lifestyle modification can be difficult for people with stroke, however, in part because of stroke-related physical and cognitive deficits. Despite these challenges, risk factor management through lifestyle modification is important. This article reviews the multiple cardiovascular and metabolic benefits associated with the modification of several lifestyle behaviors: diet, physical activity, smoking cessation, and alcohol consumption. Health behavior theories and existing lifestyle intervention programs are also reviewed to identify important behavioral and cognitive skills that can be used to facilitate modification of health behaviors, and practical skills and suggestions for health care providers are provided.