Transient ischaemic attack (TIA) and stroke are clinical syndromes characterised by acute neurological deficits with vascular causes. People experiencing TIA or a first stroke are at significant risk of subsequent stroke. Risk factors have been identified and include factors associated with lifestyle such as tobacco use, diet, obesity, alcohol consumption, physical activity and stress. Targeted therapeutic interventions have the potential to reduce the burden of stroke substantially. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of the evidence relating to lifestyle risk factors for stroke. Health promotion theories and intervention techniques that nurses can use to address lifestyle behaviour change following stroke will also be discussed.