Obesity

Obesity, defined as a body mass index (BMI) of 30.0 kg/m² or greater, increases the risk of ischemic stroke relative to normal-weight individuals. At least 38% of U.S. adults are currently obese. Abdominal body fat is an independent risk factor for ischemic stroke in all race/ethnic groups. In many cases obesity predisposes individuals to other stroke risk factors including diabetes and hypertension.