Otite FO, et al. - Trends were assessed in the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors (hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, smoking, and drug abuse) and cardiovascular diseases (carotid stenosis, chronic renal failure [CRF], and coronary artery disease [CAD]) in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in the United States. Across the 2004-2014 period, the prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, smoking, and drug abuse in AIS increased, despite numerous guidelines and prevention initiatives. The proportion of patients with carotid stenosis, CRF, and multiple risk factors also increased. For optimal stroke prevention, enhanced risk factor modification strategies and implementation of evidence-based recommendations were required.