Genetics
Scientists are still researching on how genetics can cause a stroke; however, the most common link is the sickle cell anemia. Sickle cell anemia is the mutation in the gene that is inherited from both parents who carry the sickle cell trait. There is a risk for the sickle-shaped blood cells to cluster along the walls of the large arteries that transmit blood to the brain, which leads to stroke. [6]
Research has shown that 24% of sickle cell patients would have experienced a stroke before the age of forty-five. Also, families with a high number of stroke patients may be exposed to similar environments and factors that increase their risk.