Program on reducing stroke risk offered

People who want to know their risk for stroke – and effective ways to reduce it – are invited to “Stamp Out Stroke!”, a free program Saturday, May 13, from 9 a.m. to noon at the UW Health-GHC East Clinic, 5249 E. Terrace Dr. in the American Center in Madison.

Blood pressure, pulse and cholesterol checks will be available, and those attending will be able to have their individual stroke risk analyzed.

In addition, UW Hospital stroke doctors will provide brief talks as follows:

• 9:30 – Have you had TIA or Stroke Symptoms?
• 11:00 – How can you Reduce Your Risk of Stroke?

While stroke is the third leading cause of death in the U.S. and the leading cause of adult disability, public understanding of the disorder needs to be improved. A 1996 national survey found that only 40 percent of adults age 50 and older would call 911 if they were having a stroke; two-thirds were unaware of the short time frame in which a person must seek treatment; and only 3 percent correctly defined a TIA as a small stroke.

Refreshments will be available throughout the screening. Free parking is available at the clinic, located just off Highway 151 north of I-90. Those attending should use the American Center exit from Highway 151.