Final answer:
Hemorrhagic strokes account for about 13% of total strokes in the United States. These strokes, which occur due to artery rupture in the brain, are more fatal than other types of strokes. Public health efforts use such data to focus on specific interventions and preventative measures.
Step-by-step explanation:
The percentage of total strokes in the United States that are attributable to hemorrhagic strokes is approximately 13%. Hemorrhagic stroke is a type of stroke that occurs when an artery in the brain ruptures, leading to bleeding within the brain tissue or surrounding areas. Despite representing a smaller proportion of overall strokes, hemorrhagic strokes are often more fatal than ischemic strokes, which are caused by blockages and account for the majority of stroke cases.
Epidemiologists and public health professionals monitor these statistics to inform healthcare practices and preventative measures. Knowing the prevalent types of stroke helps in tailoring interventions and focusing resources on the most impactful areas. Public health campaigns can thus be designed to address the specific risk factors associated with the most common forms of stroke. The current focus might include managing high blood pressure, avoiding smoking, and promoting healthy lifestyle choices to reduce the risk of hemorrhagic stroke.