PHOENIX (March 27, 2008) – According to the American Heart Association, a stroke occurs every 40 seconds. And every three to four minutes, someone dies of stroke. Are you at risk for stroke? Here’s how to find out.

Banner Estrella will offer a free stroke risk assessment on Saturday, May 24, at Banner Estrella Medical Center, 9201 W. Thomas Road. The assessment includes a blood pressure check, cholesterol screening, glucose assessment, electrocardiogram and Carotid Doppler studies. The test results will be reviewed by a physician prior to the end of the assessment, followed by a consultation with a nurse or physician. To register, call (602) 230-CARE (2273). 

Stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States, behind heart disease and cancer. About 780,000 Americans suffer a new or recurrent stroke each year. It is a type of cardiovascular disease that affects the arteries leading to and within the brain. Stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is blocked by a clot or bursts. When this occurs, part of the brain is unable to receive the blood and oxygen it needs, and it begins to die.

Banner Estrella Medical Center is offering a lecture series featuring neurologists and cardiologists from Banner Estrella. Drs. Andrew Atiemo, Troy Anderson, Lawrence Kline and Richard Rawlings will present lectures on stroke, risk factors, and prevention.

The dates and times of the lectures are listed below.

• Saturday, April 5,
   1-2 p.m.
   Dr. Andrew Atiemo
   Desert Sage Library
  
• Tuesday, April 8
   6:30-7:30 p.m.
   Dr. Troy Anderson
   Verrado
  
• Saturday, April 12
   1-2 p.m.
   Dr. Lawrence Kline
   Pebble Creek

Contact: Mary Brandenberger, Public Relations
Phone: (623) 327-7168 
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