What’s changed? New stroke prevention guidelines

It has been a decade since the American Stroke Association last released stroke prevention guidelines, so it’s not a surprise there are quite a few updates in its recently released recommendations.

“The new stroke guidelines reflect the latest research in stroke prevention,” explains Dr. Timothy Mikesell, a neurologist at Advocate Health Care. “You’ll notice that some recommendations haven’t changed, such as being physically active, quitting smoking and routinely seeing your primary care provider.”

Here’s what has changed:

No more DASH diet

The new guidelines still recommend a Mediterranean diet to reduce your risk of stroke. The diet includes fresh produce, nuts, beans, whole grains, olive oil and fish.

However, the latest guidelines dropped the DASH diet due to research showing low fat diets had little impact on overall stroke risk.

Inclusion of anti-obesity medications

Anti-obesity medications, also known as glucagon-like protein-1 (GLP-1) receptors agonists, have spiked in popularity since the prior guidelines and therefore more research has been conducted. The medications are now known to help with diabetes management and weight loss, both of which reduce risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease.

Focus on women’s health

High blood pressure must be managed throughout pregnancy and for six weeks postpartum to help prevent stroke and pregnancy complications, both of which can increase your risk of stroke later in life.

The guidelines also recommend receiving treatment for endometriosis, ovarian failure before age 40, and early-onset menopause – all of which also increase your risk of stroke.

The impact of hormone therapy

Research has found that gender affirming hormone therapy using estrogen can increase a transgender individual’s risk of stroke. The guidelines indicate that more research is needed on how interventions can help reduce this health disparity.

“The new guidelines also touch on how social determinants of health, like education, economic stability and health care access, increase your stroke risk,” says Dr. Mikesell. “To help reduce this risk, health care providers can point you to food and housing resources, and healthy lifestyle programs.”

Want to learn more about your risk for stroke? Take a free online quiz.