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Researchers devise new test to examine stroke risk

Category: Heart Health and Cholesterol

A cholesterol test is generally thought of as one of the most important methods of screening a person for stroke risk. However, a new study suggests that even simpler methods may be just as useful.

Researchers from Boston Medical Center found that individuals who have slower walking speeds and weaker grips are more likely to suffer a stroke or to develop dementia. The findings could make it easier for doctors to screen for stroke risk in their patients.

For the study, the researchers tracked the health of 2,400 men and women with an average age of 62 over an 11-year period. At the outset of the study the researchers measured participants' grip strength and walking speed. The results showed that individuals with stronger grips were 42 percent less likely to experience a stroke.

The researchers said the test can be carried out by a neurologist or a primary care physician, making it a cheap and accessible screening method.

"These are basic office tests which can provide insight into risk of dementia and stroke and can be easily performed by a neurologist or general practitioner," said Erica C. Camargo, who led the investigation.