Which patient population is at higher risk for strokes?

The patient population that is at higher risk for strokes includes older adults and individuals with high blood pressure. As people age, the risk of stroke increases due to factors such as atherosclerosis, which involves the hardening and narrowing of the arteries. Additionally, high blood pressure is a significant risk factor for stroke as it can damage the blood vessels in the brain and increase the likelihood of blood clots forming.

Older adults often have multiple comorbidities, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and other cardiovascular issues that contribute to their overall stroke risk. Understanding these risk factors is crucial in a primary care setting, as early identification and management of high blood pressure can significantly reduce the incidence of strokes in this vulnerable population. Contrastively, younger populations like children and adolescents generally have a much lower incidence of strokes. Pregnant women may also be at risk due to changes in blood volume and circulation, but they do not have the same heightened risk compared to older adults with hypertension. Athletes, while they may experience unique health considerations, are not inherently at higher risk for strokes compared to the specified groups.