Which of the following statements is false?

a. Only 25 percent of people recover fully after a stroke.

b. 20 percent of people die within a month after their stroke.

c. Men are more likely to die from stroke.

d. About 80 percent of strokes are caused by clogged arteries in the brain.

Answer >>

C. Although strokes are more common for men, more women are killed by strokes. Strokes are the third leading cause of death among Americans, killing more than 167,000 people each year. Only 25 percent of people fully recover after a stroke, and 20 percent die within a month after having a stroke.

The key to stroke survival is immediate medical attention at the onset of symptoms that include: numbness or paralysis of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body; the inability to speak or understand simple statements; a sudden, severe headache; sudden blurred vision or loss of vision; and/or dizziness or unsteadiness, especially when other symptoms are present. Call 911 or get to an emergency room immediately if you or a family member has any of these symptoms. Clot-busting drugs can usually prevent brain damage, but only if they are given within three hours of the attack.

Strokes can be avoided with early prevention. If you smoke, stop. Smokers have a 50 percent greater chance of suffering a stroke. Keep blood pressure and cholesterol down.
Eat plenty of fresh produce and high fiber grains, and avoid saturated fats. Reduce extra weight and get regular medical checkups. Moderate exercise for an hour five days a week can reduce stroke risk by 46 percent.