FREE Stroke Awareness Seminar for residents
Monday, October 8, 2007
Learn the warning signs of a stroke & ways to prevent a stroke
A Free Stroke Awareness Seminar will be held at Blacktown City Council on Friday, October 26 from 9.30am until 2.30pm giving residents the opportunity to hear from health professionals about the warning signs of, and ways to prevent, a stoke.
The Seminar will focus on areas such as hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, smoking, diet, cholesterol and physical exercise - all of which are associated with strokes and prevention of strokes.
"It is always important for the community to have an opportunity to learn about the many and varied health issues that could affect them and ways in which they can help prevent illness and promote a healthy lifestyle. The Stroke Awareness Seminar is just another avenue for this to happen," Mayor of Blacktown City, Councillor Leo Kelly, OAM said.
The risks associated with having a stroke are influenced by numerous factors. The more risk factors one has, the higher their chances are of having a stroke. Some stroke risk factors cannot be controlled, these include;
- Age - as you get older, your risk of stroke increases
- Gender - stroke is more common in men
- A family history of stroke
Recent studies on the link between smoking and a stroke estimate that smoking may contribute to up to one in three strokes in NSW. The report commissioned by the NSW Cancer Institute state that if smokers give up they halve their risk of stroke.
At the Seminar, health professionals such as doctors, clinical nurse consultants, dietitians, physiotherapists will all speak about the implications of smoking and other contributing factors that can cause a major stroke.
The Stroke Awareness Seminar has been organised by Blacktown Mount Druitt Stroke Service, TENA and Council and is FREE to attend. Bookings are essential for the seminar by phoning Cheryl King on 9881 1123. Lunch and refreshments will be provided on the day.
