Researchers compared 1,201 people who had their first stroke between ages 15-49 with a control group who had no strokes. After adjusting for age, race, smoking, diabetes and high blood pressure the obese men had a 34% higher risk of stroke and women a 7% higher risk than the normal weight controls. Because this studied relied on self-reported height and weight, it may have underestimated the impact of obesity and stroke.
PositiveTip: Maintain normal weight through a healthy diet and lifestyle to minimize risk of stroke.