WASHINGTON, D.C. – Did you know that the Hispanic population is one of the most underserved when it comes to handling the aftereffects of a stroke? And did you know that Latinos more than any other ethnicity are having strokes at younger ages? Hispanics have a different prevalence of risk factors for stroke when compared with non-Hispanic whites. The Northern Manhattan Stroke Study, a large, urban stroke investigation, found that the average age for stroke in Hispanics was 67 compared to 80 for non-Hispanic whites, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

That’s why MedStar National Rehabilitation Network will hold monthly meetings of the Latino Stroke Support Group on the fourth Thursday of each month. The next meeting will take place onThursday, Aug. 22, from 6 - 7:30 p.m. at the Latin American Youth Center (1419 Columbia Road, NW, Washington, D.C., 20009). The meetings will continue to be held at the same time and location every fourth Thursday of each month.

The Latino Stroke Support Group was formed to offer information, support and advice to Spanish-speaking people who have suffered a stroke or other injury to the brain. The group’s goal is to help people return to their prior life activities through the presentation and discussion of the following topics: nutrition and eating right after a stroke; access to doctors and stroke prevention; depression; behavioral changes after stroke; cognitive and language changes; coping with stress; guided mediation; and community resources.

The support group will be conducted entirely in Spanish and family members are welcome to join. Snacks and beverages will be provided.

For more information, contact Ilana Oliff at 202-877-1452 or email [email protected].

For Immediate Release

Contact: Derek Berry
Director of Communications
Ph: 202-877-1773
M: 571-218-7594
[email protected]