By: Dr. Jo Ann Santiago Rivera
A cerebrovascular accident, also known as a stroke, occurs when blood flow to the brain is suddenly interrupted. It can be caused by a clot blocking an artery (ischemic) or a ruptured blood vessel (hemorrhagic). In both cases, each minute counts, because oxygen and nutrients are no longer reaching the brain cells.
Incidence in Puerto Rico
Strokes are one of the leading causes of death and handicap on the island. Thousands of Puerto Ricans suffer strokes each year, and many face lasting effects that limit their memory, speech, or movement.
Health risks common to our population—like high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and obesity—largely raise the risk for stroke.
Prevention: steps that save lives
Most strokes can be prevented. Key preventive steps are:
- Controlling your blood pressure – this is the most major risk cause.
- Keeping a healthy diet – more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains; less salt, sugars, and fried foods.
- Staying physically active – at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
- Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption – both cause harm to your blood vessels.
- Taking care of your chronic conditions – diabetes and cholesterol call for ongoing treatment.
Small daily changes have a big impact on your long-term health.
Medical checkups: your best aide
In many cases, there are no symptoms for high blood pressure or high blood sugar until an event occurs. That’s why medical checkups are vital:
- Check your blood pressure regularly.
- Get blood sugar and cholesterol tests.
- Check your weight and lifestyle with your doctor.
Checkups serve as an early detection alarm that can help save lives.
Recognizing the warning signs
When a stroke happens, acting FAST is vital.
Remember this acronym:
F (Face): drooping face or uneven smile
A (Arms): lack of strength in one arm
S (Speech): trouble speaking or slurred speech
T (Time): Call 9-1-1 right away!
Other symptoms are sudden loss of vision, dizziness, loss of coordination, confusion, or bad headache with no apparent cause.
What to do if you suspect a stroke
- Call 9-1-1 right away.
- Don’t wait for the symptoms to go away. Even if symptoms improve, it may be a serious warning sign.
- Don’t drive yourself to the hospital. Paramedics can give immediate care in the ambulance and transport the patient to the proper facility.
A final message
A stroke can change your life in seconds, but prevention and acting fast make all the difference.
As a Triple-S member, remember to:
- Take care of your blood pressure and diet.
- Stay physically active.
- Get your medical checkups.
- And most importantly, talk openly with your doctor.
Protect your health today so you can live better tomorrow.
TSS-MKT-6012-2025-B