(Family Features) Legalization of marijuana for medical and recreational use is increasing across the United States. However, according to two scientific studies published by the American Heart Association, marijuana may increase the risk for deadly cardiovascular diseases, heart attacks, and strokes. The scientific statement “Medical Marijuana, Recreational Cannabis and Cardiovascular Health,” says marijuana may be helpful for some medical conditions, but doesn’t appear to have well-documented benefits for preventing or treating cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The chemicals in cannabis have al ..read more

(NewsUSA) – There are more than 60 million women of child-bearing age in the U.S. who use some form of birth control. While research shows that birth control pills are safe and effective, as with any medication, they can pose some risks. One risk associated with birth control pills or hormonal birth control that contains estrogen, such as the pill, patch, or ring, is life-threatening blood clots. Using birth control pills with estrogen increases a woman’s risk for blood clots three-fold. Women with a clotting disorder, previous blood clot, or family history of blood clots are at an even greate ..read more

The American Stroke Association will focus on defeating stroke through education and collaboration. BUFFALO, NY, May 15, 2023 – Strokes can happen to anyone, at any age. In fact, globally about one in four adults over the age of 25 will have a stroke in their lifetime. During American Stroke Month, the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, as part of a nationally supported collaboration with HCA Healthcare and the HCA Healthcare Foundation, will teach people everywhere that stroke is largely preventable, treatable and beatable. A stroke happens when normal ..read more

Courtesy of the American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association Stroke affects the arteries leading to and within the brain, and is the number 5 cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the United States. It occurs when a blood vessel carrying oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts, preventing the brain from getting the blood and oxygen it needs, and causing brain cells to die. Types of Stroke Stroke can be caused by a clot obstructing the flow of blood to the brain (ischemic stroke) or by a ruptured blood vessel preventing blood flow ..read more

  Niagara’s most experienced stroke center is about to take patient care to a whole new level, provided by world renowned specialists aided by artificial intelligence technology. Under the umbrella of Advanced Stroke Program or “ASP,” Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center (NFMMC) and University of Buffalo Neurosurgery (UBNS) announced today that UBNS will be providing medical care for stroke patients at Niagara Falls Memorial effective Monday.  UB Neurosurgery’s internationally renowned endovascular team, which includes Dr. Elad Levy, Dr. Adnan Siddiqui, Dr. Kenneth Snyder and Dr. J ..read more

Recovering from a stroke: Elderwood provides many options during this challenging time Thousands of Americans suffer strokes each year. While many risk factors can contribute to stroke, the reality is that almost anyone, at any age, can suffer a stroke. A stroke is a “brain attack” due to a loss of blood flow to part of the brain. It can occur as a result of a clot, referred to as an ischemic stroke, or a broken blood vessel in the brain, referred to as a hemorrhagic stroke. In either case, getting immediate care is critical. The sooner blood flow is restored, the less damage is done to t ..read more

American Stroke Association ride supports brain health and research to eradicate stroke BUFFALO, November 30, 2022 — More than 100 riders joined together for the American Stroke Association’s CycleNation event Wednesday at ADPRO Sports Training Center. The ride boosts mental and physical health while raising critical funds to stop the cycle of stroke across the nation. Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States and the leading cause of disability in older age. CycleNation is a high energy, indoor stationary cycling event. Teams of four ride stationary bikes in relay format ..read more

Buffalo CycleNation returns in person BUFFALO, May 12, 2022 — The popular CycleNation event returned to Buffalo on Thursday evening. The event, held at BAC for Women, Colvin, raised more than $50,000. For two hours, teams of four rode stationary bikes in a relay-style to help the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, fight stroke. Stroke is the nation’s No. 5 killer, and a leading cause of long-term disability. About 800,000 people in the United States have a stroke every year. That’s nearly the entire population f Erie County! Thursday’s event served as a ..read more

The likelihood of knowing someone who has had a stroke underscores just how prevalent stroke is and how important it is to understand stroke risk factors. According to the World Stroke Organization, more than 101 million people, including men, women, and even children have experienced a stroke. No one is immune to stroke, but the American Heart Association says being aware of risk factors you cannot control, as well as those you can, is important. Risk Factors You Cannot Control Age. Stroke is more common among both men and women ages 65 and older. Family history. Having a parent, grandparent ..read more

Structural Racism Causes Poor Health, Premature Death from Heart Disease and Stroke American Heart Association Presidential Advisory   Advisory Highlights: The American Heart Association has declared structural racism a cause of poor health and premature death from heart disease and stroke, in a new Presidential Advisory. The Association calls for allies to work together to address barriers to health caused by structural racism. The Association is also developing new strategic business goals with an increased focus on health equity. Embargoed until Noon CT/1 p.m. ET Tuesday, Nov. 1 ..read more