Ocean County residents are encouraged to find out if they are at risk of a stroke by

registering for a free screening and assessment on Wednesday, August 25, 2010, at the Ocean

County Health Department (OCHD), 175 Sunset Avenue, Toms River. The screenings begin at

9:00 a.m. and will continue until noon. Appointments are necessary and can be made by calling

the Ocean County Health Department at 732-341-9700, ext. 7604.

According to the American Stroke Association, stroke is a major cause of serious, longterm

disability in the country and the third leading cause of death of Americans. A stroke occurs

when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or

bursts. When that happens; part of the brain cannot get the blood and oxygen it needs resulting

in death of brain cells and brain damage.

According the Leslie Terjesen, OCHD Public Information Officer, an OCHD nurse will

provide education, assess the client’s medical history, risk factors, take blood pressure, pulse

readings and listen for carotid bruits. There are several factors that can increase your risk of

heart disease and stroke. The more risk factors you have, the greater your chance of having a

heart attack or stroke. Some of these you cannot control, such as increasing age, family health

history, race and gender. But you can modify, treat or control most risk factors to lower your

risk. A person is at greater risk of having a stroke if that person:

“This is a wonderful service to our residents and I encourage persons 55 years or older

who have a family history of stroke or have high blood pressure to take advantage of this

screening,” said Freeholder Gerry P. Little, Liaison to the Ocean County Health Department.

Residents can also visit the Ocean County Health Department website to view other