Anderson, Kristin2008-12-012008-12-012008-12-01https://hdl.handle.net/11299/45536The information provided in this handout does not necessarily reflect the views of the University of Minnesota Medical School physicians and faculty. These materials are provided for informational purposes only and are in no way intended to take the place of the advice and recommendations of your personal health care provider. You use the information provided in these handouts at your own risk.Stroke represents a heavy burden of disease in the US; it is the third leading cause of death. The risk of stroke after a first cerebrovascular event is high; annual estimates range from 4-11% in this population. Primary stroke prevention encompasses a variety of lifestyle changes such diet change, exercise, smoking cessation, and moderation of alcohol intake. The goal of these actions is to prevent conditions associated with an increased risk of stroke, including hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes. Once a patient has had a stroke, pharmacotherapy is indicated for prevention of recurrence. Studies thus far indicate that in patients with normal heart rhythms, antiplatelet therapy with aspirin is the best choice for reducing risk of another stroke. Patients with heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation should be on oral anticoagulation therapy with warfarin.en-USStroke preventionaspirinwarfarinOther