Exercise to Prevent Severe Strokes
Reported October 24, 2008
(Ivanhoe Newswire) — People who are physically active before suffering a stroke may recover better and experience fewer problems compared to non-exercisers, according to a new study.
Researchers asked 265 stroke survivors with an average age of 68 about their exercise habits. They found those who exercised the most were more than twice as likely to suffer a less severe stroke than the people who exercised the least. The exercise wasnt extreme; it included light housework, taking a walk outside, lawn care, gardening or participating in a sport.
The most active survivors also had a better chance of long-term recovery, researchers said.
The studys authors concluded exercise is one possible risk factor for stroke that can be controlled. The study suggests the importance of stroke awareness programs and prevention campaigns.
SOURCE: Neurology, 2008; October 21, 2008