Control Your Risk Factors

• High blood pressure is the #1 risk factor –  manage with lifestyle and/or medication.
• Diabetes: Keep blood sugar levels in target range.
• Cholesterol: Manage LDL (bad) cholesterol.
• Heart disease or irregular heartbeat (like atrial fibrillation): Treat promptly.

Live a Healthy Lifestyle

• Don’t smoke – quitting reduces risk dramatically.
• Limit alcohol – no more than one drink per day for women, two for men.
• Healthy diet – rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low in salt and saturated fat.
• Regular exercise – at least 30 minutes/day of moderate activity.
• Maintain a healthy weight.

Take Your Medication (when prescribed)

• Blood thinners (e.g., aspirin, warfarin) for people at high risk.
• Blood pressure medication
• Statins for cholesterol
• Diabetes medications