A new study reveals that 3 risk factors are associated with severe strokes, two of which can be managed through lifestyle changes. The study, published this week in the journal Neurology, analysed data collected between 2007 and 2015 as part of the INTERSTROKE study.
This global study involved patients from 142 centers in 32 countries who were asked standardized questions to assess risk factors for stroke. A total of 13 460 stroke patients were followed up, with cases divided into those who had experienced a severe stroke and those with a milder stroke.
A 6-point scale was used to measure the degree of disability in the patients. Ultimately, three factors were found to significantly increase the risk of severe stroke, two of which could be controlled by changes in daily routine.
Dr Catriona Reddin, the study's first author, said:
"This study looked at the association between modifiable risk factors with severe and mild and moderate stroke. Three risk factors - high blood pressure, smoking and atrial fibrillation (which is an irregular heart rhythm) - were associated with a higher risk of severe compared with mild stroke. This highlights the importance of managing these risk factors along with other risk factors for stroke."
This underlines the importance of quitting smoking and controlling blood pressure through a healthy and balanced diet. Previous research has linked obesity, high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol to strokes, confirming the results of the new study.
Dr Reddin, who is a specialist in geriatric medicine at Galway University Hospital and a research fellow at the University of Galway, Ireland, added:
"Our study highlights that certain risk factors are particularly important for severe stroke. We hope that hearing the results of our study may highlight the importance of managing risk factors for stroke." | BGNES
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