Black Americans in the U.S. have a higher risk of experiencing a stroke compared to other racial groups, with worse outcomes and higher mortality rates. Initiatives like Ziengbe, founded by Eseosa Ighodaro, aim to address these disparities. Knowing the symptoms of a stroke, such as facial drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulties, numbness, and vision loss, is crucial for timely treatment. Modifiable risk factors for stroke, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking, are more prevalent among Black individuals. Social determinants of health, including access to healthcare and discriminatory housing policies, also play a significant role in stroke risk and outcomes among Black Americans. Allostatic load, the wear and tear on the body due to chronic stress, is a contributing factor to racial disparities in stroke outcomes and needs further research.
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Stroke Risk in Black Americans: Expert Q&A
