Every May, we observe National Stroke Awareness Month—a crucial time to educate ourselves and our communities about the warning signs, risk factors, and prevention of one of the leading causes of death and disability in the United States. What Is a Stroke? A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted—either by a blockage (ischemic stroke) or by a ruptured blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). Without oxygen and nutrients, brain cells begin to die within minutes, which can lead to lasting brain damage, disability, or even death. Why Stroke Awareness Matters Every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. has a stroke. Every 3.5 minutes, someone dies from one. Up to 80% of strokes are preventable through lifestyle changes and managing health [...]