May 2025

In NZ, National Stroke Awareness is observed in May every year. 1 in 4 adults over the age of 25 will experience a stroke themselves in their lifetime. It is a leading cause of adult disability and the second leading cause of death in New Zealand. But despite these numbers, there is hope: up to 90% of strokes are preventable.

Here are some things you can do to reduce your risk for stroke:

• Aim to eat mostly “whole” foods such as fresh fruit and vegetables, whole-grain cereals, lean meat, fish and poultry.

• Move more! Walking, swimming, stair walking (instead of taking the lift), housework and gardening as well as structured exercise all count

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Minimise alcohol and salt intake Quit smoking (or vaping)

• Monitor and control your blood pressure.

  Recognising some key symptoms of stroke (facial droop, weakness in the arms, and slurred or difficulty with speech) and acting quickly to seek medical help can minimise permanent damage and in some cases reverse it (FAST). For more info click on this link.