About 1,500 Mississippians die each year from strokes. Smokers are more at risk for strokes than those who do not smoke.

During May, National Stroke Awareness Month, the Mississippi State Department of Health stresses the importance of taking meaningful steps to lower your risk of stroke, and therefore prolong your life.

Smokers, those who are overweight, or drink more than a moderate amount of alcohol are at higher risk of strikes. Black men and women are at a substantially higher risk than other. Older individuals and those with family histories of stroke are also at higher risk.

“We know that tobacco use increases the risk of blood clots, which are the cause of stroke,” said MSDH Director of the Office of Tobacco Control Tiffany Johnson.

Signs of a stroke only show up when a stroke is taking place. Being able to spot the signs — numbness, confusion, blurred vision, slurred speech, loss of balance, headache — can save your life. Memorizing the FAST acronym can also help recognize stroke symptoms.

F — Face drooping

A — Arm weakness

S — Speech difficulty, such as slurring

T — Time to call 9-1-1

People who stay active and smoke-free dramatically reduce their risk of stroke. Also check your blood pressure regularly and get to healthy levels, as well as in cholesterol, blood sugar, and body mass index (BMI).

Every county health department and fire station will check your blood pressure at no cost.

Strokes can be prevented.

For help or more information, visit www.healthyms.com, www.quitnow.net/ms, www.msdh.ms.gov, or call the Mississippi Tobacco Quit Line at 800-QUIT-NOW.