Underwriting for a Stroke or TIA

A Stroke (or CVA - Cerebral Vascular Accident) is the sudden onset of a neurologic deficit lasting longer than 24 hours. Stroke is usually caused by the occlusion of the cerebral arteries due to atherosclerosis. Less commonly, a stroke may be caused by a blood clot to the brain or bleeding within the brain. Strokes occur when blood flow to the brain is blocked for extended periods of time; irreparable damage to the brain often takes place resulting in loss of function or paralysis.

A Transient Ischemic Attack - TIA are episodes of temporary cerebral dysfunction of vascular origin, which resolve within 24 hours. TIAs occur when emboli or plaques temporarily block the arterial blood flow to the brain, resulting in temporary symptoms.

Numbness, weakness, dizziness, fainting, vision defects, or loss of speech (aphasia) are the typical signs. TIAs are often a precursor to more significant cerbrovascular events (ie. strokes).

When diagnostic tests show significant blockage or extensive ulceration or plaque in the carotid arteries, surgery (endarterectomy or stents) may be recommended to reduce the chance of stroke.

When underwriting for strokes and TIAs, insurance companies look at the amount of time that has passed, if there were multiple events or if there is a loss of function. If there is a combination of diabetes, heart attacks or heart surgery, smoking, peripheral vascular disease or aneurysms, the likelihood of being accepted diminishes. Not all companies will accept someone who has had a stroke or TIA. It is important to work with an agent with access to multiple companies to find the right fit for you.