Smokers with Low Education more Susceptible to Stroke

Some smokers are more at risk of stroke than others, according to a recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark.

A combination of smoking and high blood pressure can greatly increase the risk of stroke--two factors that are more commonly seen in individuals with lower educational backgrounds.

"We found it is worse being a current smoker with lower education than a current smoker with a higher education," said lead study author Helene Nordahl, Ph.D., M.S.C., of the Department of Public Health at the University of Copenhagen in Denmark, in a news release. "Targeted interventions aimed at reducing smoking and high blood pressure in lower socioeconomic groups would yield a greater reduction in stroke than targeting the same behaviors in higher socioeconomic groups."

For their findings, researchers examined 68,643 adults between the ages of 30 and 70. Participants were divided into low, medium and high education levels. Smoking levels were assessed as well as blood pressure levels.

Researchers found that 16 percent of men and 11 percent of women who were also at an increased risk of stroke also had a lower educational background, smoked and had high blood pressure.

Furthermore, the study also revealed that less educated smokers were significantly more likely to suffer from a stroke compared to other more educated counterparts. 

More information regarding the findings can be seen via the American Heart Association's journal Stroke.

As stroke remains the third leading cause of death in the United States, it's estimated that over 140,000 people will die from this health complication each year. Though certain genetic and environmental factors can contribute to stroke, taking proper care of your health can help to prevent this and other health issues.