90 Percent of Strokes Are Preventable

The good news is that stroke is not an unavoidable fate. According to Indonesia's Health Ministry, about 90 percent of stroke cases are linked to 10 preventable risk factors — from hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol to smoking and physical inactivity.

That means most strokes can actually be prevented by controlling risk factors early. Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin stressed that stroke, heart disease, and kidney disease can be prevented if people get regular health checkups, including through the Free Health Check program.

Monitor Four Health Indicators

The minister urges the public to routinely monitor four key health indicators: blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, and body weight. Ideal blood pressure is below 120/80 mmHg, blood sugar should not exceed 200 mg/dL, and cholesterol should stay below 200 mg/dL.

Many people do not realize their condition is worsening because hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol often cause no symptoms in the early stage. The disease is only discovered after triggering serious complications such as stroke or heart attack. Above-normal readings should not be dismissed even if you feel healthy.

Apply CERDIK in Daily Life

The Health Ministry promotes prevention through the acronym CERDIK: routine health Checks (at minimum blood pressure and blood sugar), Eliminate cigarette smoke, Regular physical activity, balanced Diet, sufficient rest, and stress management. The three biggest stroke causes are high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and smoking.

For physical activity, do light exercise such as a 30-minute walk a day, 5 days a week — about 150 minutes weekly per CDC guidance. Limit salt to no more than 2,000 mg per day per the Ministry, eat more fruits and vegetables, and avoid alcohol. People with diabetes and heart disease need regular treatment as their doctor advises.

Don't Wait Until You're Sick to Get Checked

According to the Indonesian Neurological Association (Perdosni), stroke is no longer a disease of the elderly only — it is increasingly striking productive-age adults. Prevention from a young age is therefore more important than ever.

Do not wait until you are sick to check your health. Use the Free Health Check services at the nearest health facility, control your blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol, and consult a doctor if you have risk factors. Early detection today is a health investment for the future.