Adventist Hinsdale Hospital will conduct a free seminar on strokes — Time Loss is Brain Loss — from 6:30 to 8 p.m. July 30 at The Community House, 415 W. Eighth St., Hinsdale.

Dr. Scott Guth, an emergency room physician, and Dr. Christopher Simon, a neurologist who is medical director of the hospital’s Primary Stroke Center, will discuss the signs and symptoms of stroke.
 
About 700,000 people suffer from a stroke each year — officials estimate 160,000 people die annually from stroke —  making it the most common cause of disability in the nation.

“It is important people know what their risk factors are for stroke so they can take preventive measures,” Simon said.

To register for the program call (630) 856-7525, or go on line at keepingyouwell.com.  
 
One of the most important ways to fight stroke is to get immediate medical attention when a stroke is suspected, and even waiting just a few minutes can have a disastrous effect, health officials say.

“Three hours can mean the difference between life and death (or permanent disability) in treating stroke. The longer blood flow is cut off and the longer treatment is delayed, the more likely it is that the patient will suffer permanent damage,” Simon said.
 
Risk factors of stroke include high blood pressure, cigarette smoking, heart disease and diabetes.