Answer:

Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability, with a high chance of recurrence if risk factors aren't well managed. Overweight and obesity are among these factors, as excess fat increases the metabolic burden and negatively impacts cerebrovascular health.

Obesity often leads to metabolic disorders such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and dyslipidemia. These are primary causes of atherosclerosis and blockage of cerebral blood vessels. Visceral fat and excess adipose tissue in the body increase inflammatory responses, weakening the lining of blood vessels and promoting blood clot formation, a key factor in ischemic stroke or cerebral infarction.

Doctor Thanh examines an overweight patient. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

Your father should prioritize weight loss to maintain a healthy weight. This will help improve cardiovascular function, stabilize blood pressure, blood sugar, and blood lipids, and reduce systemic inflammation. These steps are crucial in preventing stroke recurrence.

You should take your father to a hospital with a weight management and obesity treatment center. Doctors there can conduct a comprehensive assessment and develop a personalized plan involving endocrinology, nutrition, and exercise medicine specialists. He should also receive regular follow-up care from a neurologist to monitor for any unusual signs that might indicate a risk of recurrence. Maintaining a long-term healthy lifestyle, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and managing stress are essential for doctors to monitor his risk.

Associate Professor Vu Thuy Thanh

Weight Management and Obesity Treatment Center

Tam Anh General Hospital