Exercise the magic pill to prevent stroke
November 01, 2017
Local residents are being urged to get moving and Stride4stroke this November, with figures showing a staggering 11 million Australians are not doing enough exercise.
Stride4stroke is the Stroke Foundation’s annual physical activity and fundraising campaign, encouraging people of all ages and abilities to get moving to reduce their risk of stroke.
Leading researcher Doctor Coralie English said physical inactivity was the second highest risk factor for stroke, behind high blood pressure.
“Stroke kills more men than prostate cancer, more women than breast cancer and leaves thousands with an ongoing disability,’’ Dr English said.
“It doesn’t need to be this way. Many strokes can be prevented.
“Around 10,000 steps a day is recommended for good health, yet most of us are doing far less – research shows the average number of steps taken by older adults is about half of this.”
Dr English said exercise helped to reduce other stroke risk factors including lowering blood pressure and reducing cholesterol levels. It also helped to improve mood.
“Exercise really is the magic pill we should all be taking daily,” Dr English said.
Stride4stroke participants are encouraged to get moving. They can walk, run, skip, swim, cycle or roll in a wheelchair, with every kilometre tracked against their chosen target. It’s open to individuals and teams of all fitness levels and friends are invited to donate towards their efforts.
Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer Sharon McGowan said Stride4stroke would provide vital funds for StrokeLine. StrokeLine (1800 787 653) is the only dedicated national helpline for stroke survivors and their families in Australia.
“The StrokeLine team provides information and advice on stroke prevention, treatment and recovery and can help families find the support or services they need, but funding is vital to keep this service operating,’’ Ms McGowan said.
“Every step you take during November can reduce your own stroke risk and help us to ensure help is available to stroke survivors and their families when they need it most.”
Join Stride4stroke and help survivors live the best possible life after stroke. Register now at www.stride4stroke.org.au. You’ll be sent a registration pack to help you reach your goal.
Stride4stroke is the Stroke Foundation’s annual physical activity and fundraising campaign, encouraging people of all ages and abilities to get moving to reduce their risk of stroke.
Leading researcher Doctor Coralie English said physical inactivity was the second highest risk factor for stroke, behind high blood pressure.
“Stroke kills more men than prostate cancer, more women than breast cancer and leaves thousands with an ongoing disability,’’ Dr English said.
“It doesn’t need to be this way. Many strokes can be prevented.
“Around 10,000 steps a day is recommended for good health, yet most of us are doing far less – research shows the average number of steps taken by older adults is about half of this.”
Dr English said exercise helped to reduce other stroke risk factors including lowering blood pressure and reducing cholesterol levels. It also helped to improve mood.
“Exercise really is the magic pill we should all be taking daily,” Dr English said.
Stride4stroke participants are encouraged to get moving. They can walk, run, skip, swim, cycle or roll in a wheelchair, with every kilometre tracked against their chosen target. It’s open to individuals and teams of all fitness levels and friends are invited to donate towards their efforts.
Stroke Foundation Chief Executive Officer Sharon McGowan said Stride4stroke would provide vital funds for StrokeLine. StrokeLine (1800 787 653) is the only dedicated national helpline for stroke survivors and their families in Australia.
“The StrokeLine team provides information and advice on stroke prevention, treatment and recovery and can help families find the support or services they need, but funding is vital to keep this service operating,’’ Ms McGowan said.
“Every step you take during November can reduce your own stroke risk and help us to ensure help is available to stroke survivors and their families when they need it most.”
Join Stride4stroke and help survivors live the best possible life after stroke. Register now at www.stride4stroke.org.au. You’ll be sent a registration pack to help you reach your goal.