To reduce stroke risk, which intervention should be targeted?

• A. Increasing salt intake
• B. Reducing physical activity
• C. Controlling Hypertension
• D. Ignoring diabetes management

Answer: (C)

Managing blood pressure is the most effective way to cut stroke risk because hypertension directly damages cerebral vessels and is the strongest modifiable risk factor for both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. Lowering blood pressure—through medications when needed and supportive lifestyle changes—significantly reduces the likelihood of a stroke event and also lowers overall cardiovascular risk.

Increasing salt intake would raise blood pressure and thus increase stroke risk. A sedentary, low-activity lifestyle contributes to higher blood pressure and worsens vascular health. Ignoring diabetes management misses another major driver of stroke risk, since diabetes accelerates vascular damage and clotting tendencies. By focusing on controlling hypertension, you address a central factor that drives stroke risk and often improve related health outcomes as well.