Host Factors are non-modifiable traits which are embedded in the “hardware” of a person, and which cannot be changed. They include:
- Age: The risk of stroke increases with age, it is particularly high after 55
- Gender: Men have an increased risk of stroke by comparison to women
- Race: Blacks have a much higher risk of stroke than Whites
- Prior Stroke: People had a stroke in the past are more likely to have a new stroke than people who have never had one.
- Family History of Stroke: Having a first degree relative who suffered a stroke before they turned 55 increases the risk of stroke.
- Migraine: Some types of migraine headaches have been associated with an increased risk of stroke
- Silent Aneurysm: Many people live with undiagnosed aneurysms in their brain. As the size of the aneurysm increases, the risk of aneurysm rupture and hemorrhagic stroke increases as well.
