An evaluation of risk factors for stroke in a Dutch community.

The objective of the present epidemiological study was to reevaluate the relationship of various suspect risk factors to stroke within a Dutch community. The Tilburg study lends support to findings in other countries concerning the greater stroke risk of persons with high blood pressure, heart disorders, and diabetes mellitus. Significant interactions of both age and a history of myocardial infarction with hypertension on stroke risk were noted. The presence of overweight and possible transient ischemic attacks (TIA) were found related to stroke onset. No increase in stroke risk was associated with cigarette smoking. The extent of leisure time physical activity during one's lifetime was found inversely related to one's chances for stroke.