State Aims to Reduce Strokes Among Black Americans

African Americans are twice as likely as Caucasians to suffer a first-time stroke, and the American Stroke Association and Washington State Department of Health want to put an end to the trend.
They are offering free materials as part of Power to End Stroke, an educational campaign designed to help African Americans lower their risk for stroke — the third-leading killer in Washington — and to learn the stroke warning signs.
Available materials include fans, posters and a brochure. All list the stroke warning signs and the "three Rs" — reduce risk, respond immediately and recognize warning signs. The brochure contains more in-depth information about strokes among African Americans, including risk factors, a risk assessment quiz, a list of resources and healthy soul food recipes.
To order any of these items at no cost, call the American Stroke Association in Washington, 1-800-562-6718.
Power to End Stroke is part of an effort by the American Stroke Association and the Washington State Department of Health to lessen the burden of stroke in African Americans and other minority groups. The two organizations have already distributed Power to End materials to churches and community centers, as well as promoted stroke awareness through a media campaign.
"Most people know the symptoms of a heart attack but need to learn more about stroke, which is literally a brain attack," said Washington State Health Officer Maxine Hayes, M.D. "Minutes matter and can mean the difference between a healthy life and either serious disability or death. Although most of those who experience a stroke are older — in their 70s, 80s and older — stroke can strike at any age. Learn more about stroke, so you can help someone you love."
To learn more, visit www.strokeassociaton.org or call 1-888-4-STROKE (78-7653). For information about heart disease and stroke prevention programs in Washington. Visit www.doh.wa.gov or call 1-888-438-2247.