A two-group randomized controlled trial testing a personalized risk communication intervention compared to an education-only control group was conducted. Eighty-nine patients were randomized and followed for 3months. Both groups received written and verbal patient education on stroke risk factors and prevention. Patients in the intervention arm also received personalized risk communication based on the Framingham stroke and coronary heart disease risk scores. A verbal and graphic presentation of their personal risk, risk relative to an age matched cohort, and their optimal or target risk based on optimal risk factor modification was presented. Outcomes measured immediately following the intervention and at 3months included: risk perception and worry; risk factor knowledge; decision preference and conflict; medication adherence; health behaviors; and blood pressure.