In a meta-analysis of eight randomized, controlled studies, researchers found that persons taking folic acid supplements had an 18 percent reduced risk of having a first stroke. In some sub-groups who took supplements for three years or longer the risk reduction was even greater–about 25 percent.

The benefit of folic acid supplements in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease is still controversial.
[SOURCE: Mariene Busko, “Meta-Analysis Suggests Folic Acid Reduces Risk for Initial Stroke,” Medscape Medical news, June 1, 2007; Xiaobin Wang, The Lancet, June 2, 2007]

Middle-Aged Women at Risk of Stroke
                                                                       

American women aged 45 to 54 are more than twice as likely to suffer a stroke as men the same age, according to data from the National Health and Nutrition Survey (NHANES). Other risk factors in women of this age group included increased waist circumference and the presence of cardiovascular disease.

The study also found an overall increased prevalence of stroke for women and a decreased prevalence for men during the period from 1999 to 2004.
[SOURCE: Susan Jeffrey, “Women Face Surge in Stroke Risk at Midlife,” Medscape Medical News, June 21, 2007; Neurology, June 20, 2007]

Polluted Air Raises Stroke Risk
                                                                                               

Older persons may be at increased risk of suffering a stroke on warm days when air pollution is high, according to a Finnish study. 

Looking at all stroke deaths in Helsinki from 1998 to 2004, researchers found that most deaths occurred during winter months but those during summer were most likely to occur on days when outdoor levels of fine particle pollution were high. The authors suggested that seniors should “avoid heavy outdoor exercise on high pollution days” and should try to avoid spending unnecessary time in traffic, whether in a car or walking.
[SOURCE: Miranda Hitti, “Air Pollution May Up Fatal Stroke Risk,” WebMD Health News, February 15, 2007; J. Kettunen, Stroke, March, 2007]