January 4, 2012 Contact: Sue Crosson-Knutson 312-334-2311
scknutson@vascularsociety.orgCHICAGO - Dennis R. Gable, M.D., a vascular surgeon with Baylor Vascular Hospital and Texas Vascular Associates, P.A., of Plano, Texas, is featured in a broadcast-quality
healthcare video, produced by the Society for Vascular Surgery®.
The video explains that strokes are the fourth leading cause of death in America according to the 2010 National Vital Statistics Report. A buildup of plaque blocks or narrows the carotid artery in the neck resulting in a stroke. In 2010, 137,000 Americans died from strokes.
Mini-strokes known as transient ischemic attacks may precede a full stroke. “There may be temporary loss of function in an arm, leg, or speech,” said Dr. Gable. “Function may return after several minutes.”
Often, strokes occur without warning. Carotid artery disease and stroke risk factors are:
• high cholesterol
• high blood pressure
• diabetes
“Prevention of a stroke isn’t a pill you take,” said Dr. Gable. “It isn’t a single procedure. It’s a lifestyle change.
If you’re smoking, you have to quit. If you’re not exercising, you’ve got to get out there and exercise. You’ve got to watch what you eat – the portion size, the calories, the types of foods.”
Vascular surgeons utilize ultrasounds to diagnose carotid artery disease. Prescription medications and lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of stroke.
For more information on vascular health and
stroke, log onto
www.VascularWeb.org®.
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About the Society for Vascular Surgery®
The Society for Vascular Surgery® (SVS) is a not-for-profit professional medical society, composed primarily of vascular surgeons, that seeks to advance excellence and innovation in vascular health through education, advocacy, research, and public awareness. SVS is the national advocate for 3,550 specialty-trained vascular surgeons and other medical professionals who are dedicated to the prevention and cure of vascular disease. Visit its Web site at VascularWeb.org®. Follow SVS on Twitter and Facebook.