Stroke Fair at Atlanta hospital offers free blood pressure screenings

Strokes are the fifth leading cause of death in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

But the cerebrovascular disease is preventable and treatable, and Emory University Hospital Midtown is holding an event to inform the public about the signs and symptoms.

A Community Stroke Fair will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, May 16, at 550 Peachtree St. NE in the medical tower lobby. Complimentary blood pressure screenings will be available, along with healthcare professionals who can answer questions about strokes.

Controlling one's blood pressure helps lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. A stroke can cause lasting brain damage, long-term disability or death.

The event coincides with National Stroke Awareness Month.

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