Risk factor management for stroke prevention

PURPOSE OF REVIEW:: This review focuses on the recommendations for management of hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, diet, physical activity, and lifestyle choices commonly encountered in neurologic practice. Specific studies, including those relevant to lipid targets, blood pressure targets, and adherence to medications after stroke, are reviewed. RECENT FINDINGS:: In addition to traditional risk factors such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, and diabetes mellitus, this review discusses sleep apnea, diet, physical activity, and other novel risk factors that are potentially modifiable. Recent studies confirm that pharmacologic strategies to achieve aggressive targets for lipid and blood pressure lowering have significant impact on recurrent stroke risk.