Ocean County residents are encouraged to find out if they are at risk of a stroke by registering for a free screening and assessment on Wednesday, January 27th  at the Ocean County Health Department (OCHD), 175 Sunset Avenue, Toms River, from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. Appointments are necessary. The OCHD plans on offering this service on a monthly basis. According to the American Stroke Association, stroke is a major cause of serious, long-term disability in the country and the third leading cause of death of Americans. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts. When that happens; part of the brain cannot get the blood and oxygen it needs resulting in death of brain cells and brain damage.
          
            According to Leslie Terjesen, OCHD Public Information Officer, an OCHD nurse will provide education, assess the client’s medical history, risk factors, take blood pressure, pulse readings and listen for carotid bruits.  There are several factors that can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. The more risk factors you have, the greater your chance of having a heart attack or stroke.  Some of these you cannot control, such as increasing age, family health history, race and gender. But you can modify, treat or control most risk factors to lower your risk. A person is at greater risk of having a stroke if that person:
 
•is age 55 years or older
•has a family history of stroke
•has previously suffered a stroke
•has high blood pressure
•smokes
•has diabetes
•has heart and/or vascular disease
•has an increased red blood cell count
 
            “This is a wonderful service to our residents and I encourage persons 55 years or older who have a family history of stroke or have high blood pressure to take advantage of this screening,” said Freeholder Gerry P. Little, Liaison to the Ocean County Health Department.
 
            Residents can register for this program by calling 732-341-9700, ext. 7604.