Description: Stroke is America's No. 3 cause of death, and it burdens blacks and Southerners the most, says the CDC. That's been true for a long time, and it's going to take a major effort to turn the trend around, according to two new studies in the CDC's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. The CDC's prescription: Learn to recognize stroke's red flags, work on lowering your risk, and seek immediate help if you suspect a stroke. Getting quick treatment can make a big difference in a stroke's outcome.