High Blood Pressure Stalks Many Americans

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Despite these measures, just 30 percent of Americans with high blood pressure have it under control, according to the study, which was published in a recent issue of the CDC's journal, Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.

"The single most important thing people can do to prevent stroke is to manage their modifiable risk factors," said Dr. Bruce Silverman, a neurologist at Providence Hospital and Medical Centers in Southfield, Mich. "That means controlling blood pressure, quitting smoking, controlling blood sugar if you're diabetic, managing stress, exercising regularly, and watching your diet."

"There are so many risk factors you can't do anything about, like age or gender, but you can do something about your blood pressure, weight and stress levels, and it will significantly impact your risk of stroke," he added.

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Both experts said that home monitoring of your blood pressure can help, and if your readings are consistently high, you should let your doctor know.

"People get frustrated when they're taking a medication as they should, and they still have a high blood pressure reading," Siller said. "But, sometimes it's not enough medication, or you may need more than one medication to really get your blood pressure under control."

Silverman also pointed out that "it's not about taking the medicine and hoping it goes away. Lifestyle and behavioral changes are still important. And, if you can control your weight, quit smoking, and exercise, you can make a big dent in high blood pressure on your own."

More information

To learn more about preventing stroke, visit the U.S. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.

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