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People who want to prevent some types of strokes don't have to look further than their refrigerators.

"Lifestyle is a big factor, especially your weight," said Dr. Peter Lin, a primary care physician in Scarborough.

"If you have a big belly, the heart has to pump harder to circulate the blood, and your blood pressure goes up. High-fat diets also make arteries tighten up."

High cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes and smoking also increase chances of having a stroke, he said.

However, there are many things Canadians can do to minimize their risk of stroke, such as maintain a healthy diet and exercise.

"Exercise makes your arteries open up," Lin said.

Close to 17,000 Ontarians are hospitalized due to stroke each year.

According to Health Canada, the risk of stroke doubles every 10 years after the age of 55. As Canada's population ages, the occurrence of stroke is expected to increase unless prevention improves.

According to Lin, there are two types of stroke. The first occurs when high blood pressure causes a vein or artery to burst. The second type is caused by a blood clot that travels to the brain.