Strokes Up Sharply for Middle-Aged Women

The stroke rate among middle-aged U.S. women tripled in 10 years, surveys show. Researchers blame the increase on obesity. The first survey occurred from 1988 to 1994. Just over one-half of 1% of women ages 35 to 54 reported strokes in that time. The most recent survey was from 1999 to 2004. Nearly 2% of women in that age group reported strokes. The average waist size was about two inches larger in the second survey. Their average body mass index rose from 27 to 29. Both measures show a rise in obesity. The Associated Press reported on the study February 21. It was presented at a medical conference.