Q. Why screen for stroke?
A. Every year, an estimated 150,000 people in the UK have a stroke. A stroke is the third most common cause of death in the UK. It is also a leading cause of severe adult disability. In the United Kingdom, more than 250,000 people live with disabilities caused by stroke. Annually, 15 million people worldwide suffer a stroke. Of these 5 million die and another 5 million are left permanently disabled, placing a burden on family and community.1
According to the World Health Organization, "Even where advanced technology and facilities are available, 60% of those who suffer a stroke die or become dependent. Given these dismal statistics and high cost of treatment of stroke, high priority should be accorded to preventive strategies."2
Q. Why screen the carotid arteries?
A. One of the common causes of stroke is a blockage in one of the carotid arteries in the front of the neck. The Cleveland Clinic, one of the world’s leading heart hospitals, describes it this way, “Like the blood vessels of the heart (coronary arteries), the carotid arteries also develop atherosclerosis, the build-up of fat and cholesterol deposits, called plaque, on the inside of the arteries. Over time, the build up narrows the artery, decreases blood flow to the brain and can lead to a stroke.” A stroke can also occur if a piece of the plaque breaks off and travels to the smaller arteries of the brain.3
Q. How can I reduce my risk for stroke?
A. Some stroke risk factors are controlled by:
* Eating a healthy diet.
* Exercising regularly.
* No smoking.
* Controlling high blood pressure.
* Controlling high cholesterol.
* Controlling diabetes.
Q. Are women more at risk of stroke than men?
A. Stroke is often seen as a man’s problem. In fact, it is a major concern for women. Three times more women die from stroke than breast cancer. Women are twice as likely to die from stroke as men, and stroke accounts for 15% of all female deaths in the UK. In addition, women overwhelmingly shoulder the burden of caring for individuals after a stroke.4
Q. What if someone goes through the stroke screening process and is found to be within normal limits and then has a stroke soon after?
A. We screen for the leading cause of stroke which is related to plaque buildup in the carotid arteries. However, strokes may also result from a brain hemorrage or clots from the heart or from other areas of the body. For these types of strokes there are no screenings. Ultrasound is the least expensive and the most accurate type of non-invasive test available at this time.
Q. I've had a stroke or heart attack. Should I have the carotid artery screening?
A. Yes, but you may be able to follow up through your doctor so check with him or her first.
Q. Can I get rid of plaque?
A. Lifestyle changes and medical management are effective at slowing the progression of atherosclerotic disease and preventing stroke. The main option for removal of atherosclerotic plaque build-up is surgery, but you would not be a candidate for this procedure unless the disease was determined to be advanced enough by your GP.
Q. If I have an abnormal result for the stroke/carotid artery screening, does this mean I will need surgery?
A. No. An abnormal finding for this study means that a problem exists that your doctor needs to know about in order to determine the next best steps for you. You may need to have medication to control risk factors , make lifestyle changes and be followed up yearly. If the disease is advanced enough, your physician may refer you to a vascular surgeon.
References:
1. UK Stroke Association
2. The Atlas of Heart Disease and Stroke, 2004, The World Health Organization.
3. UK Stroke Association Fact Sheet 40 "Carotid Artery Disease"; The Cleveland Clinic
4. UK Stroke Association, Factsheet 38 "Women and Stroke"
