In developed countries, also in Slovenia − cerebrovascular diseases are the third most com­mon cause for death, and are on the top of the list of diseases that cause disablement. Epidemiological researches show that by undertaking preventive actions development of cere­brovascular diseases can be largely prevented. It has been observed that in Slovenia the age of those effected has gone up, although in young people leading an unhealthy life severe forms of the decease can develop. Main risk factors are the same for both cerebrovascular diseases, aterosclerosys and ischemic heart desease, heart disease being itself an additional risk fac­tor. In primary prevention of cerebrovascular diseases directions, methods and goals are the same as those concerning ischemic heart disease. It is most important that the lifestyle of entire population be changed, risk factors effecting each of the risk group assessed and removed. We would also recommend the postmenopausal estrogen and anticoagulant therapy, thus pre­venting certain heart diseases. In treating cerebrovascular diseases secondary prevention includes changing ones lifestyle, removement of risk factors and anticoagulant, antiagrega- tional, surgical and radiointerventional treatment. This article speaks of newest directions in primary and secondary prevention of cerebrovascular diseases.