Major risk factors for stroke have been identified and well studied. They include hypertension, diabetes, cigarette smoking, hyperlipidemia and family history. Obesity and heart disease (atrial fibrillation, valve disease) are also risk factors, and previous stroke is an important heavy risk factor. It is of great importance that these risk factors are modifiable. Theoretically, this knowledge should lead to a decrease rather than an increase in the incidence of stroke. It is not far-fetched to consider that such a decrease could be substantial, like cutting the incidence of stroke by 50% or 75%. Such an objective is solidly aligned with already well-established public health initiatives and is at the core of the JTSSF research grant program.