Ischaemic stroke in young adults: risk factors and long-term consequences

Comparative analysis of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease burden between ages 20-54 and over 55 years: insights from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019

BACKGROUND

To systematically analyze differences in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) burden between young and older adults.

METHODS

We estimated the prevalence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of ASCVD, including ischemic heart disease (IHD), ischemic stroke (IS), and peripheral artery disease (PAD), in individuals aged 20-54 and > 55 years from 1990-2019, utilizing data from the 2019 Global Burden of Disease Study. The annual percentage changes (EAPCs) for age-specific prevalence, mortality, or DALY rates were calculated to quantify the temporal trends of ASCVD burden. We also analyzed population attribution fractions (PAF) of premature ASCVD mortality and DALYs for different risk factors and compared the burden of extremely premature, premature, and non-premature ASCVD cases based on clinical classifications.

RESULTS

From 1990-2019, the global prevalence rates of IHD, IS, and PAD in the 20-54 years age group increased by 20.55% (from 694.74 to 837.49 per 100,000 population), 11.50% (from 439.48 to 490.03 per 100,000 population), and 7.38% (from 384.24 to 412.59 per 100,000 population), respectively. Conversely, the ASCVD prevalence in > 55years age group decreased. Adverse outcome burdens, including mortality and DALYs, varied among ASCVD subtypes. The decrease in the mortality/DALY burden of IHD and IS was lower in the 20-54 years group than in the > 55 years group. For PAD, DALYs among those aged 20-54 increased but decreased among those aged > 55 years. When grouped according to socio-demographic index (SDI) values, lower SDI regions exhibited a higher proportion of young ASCVD burden. The prevalence of young IHD, IS, and PAD in low SDI regions reached 20.70%, 40.05%, and 19.31% in 2019, respectively, compared with 12.14%, 16.32%, and 9.54%, respectively, in high SDI regions. Metabolic risks were the primary contributors to the ASCVD burden in both age groups. Increased susceptibility to ambient particulate matter pollution and inadequate control of high body-mass index and high fasting plasma glucose in young individuals may partially explain the differing temporal trends between young and older individuals.

CONCLUSIONS

The ASCVD burden in young individuals may become a growing global health concern, especially in areas with lower socioeconomic development levels that require more effective primary prevention strategies.

Positive association of ethylene oxide levels with young stroke: a population-based study

Background

Ethylene oxide (EtO), a highly reactive organic compound with extensive industrial applications, poses significant health risks. The association between EtO exposure and stroke was not well established. This study examined the association between EtO exposure and stroke among US adults using data from the 2013-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).

Methods

We used appropriately weighted multifactorial logistic regression models to analyze the data and validated the findings with smoothed curve fitting. Stratified analysis and interaction assessments were performed to evaluate the robustness of the findings.

Results

The study included 5,071 participants, balanced between men and women, with a stroke prevalence of 4.1%. Higher EtO levels were associated with rising rates of stroke (OR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.06-1.42). Individuals in the top 25% group displayed a stroke prevalence 1.6 times higher than those in the bottom 25% group (OR = 1.60, 95%CI: 1.03-2.48). Stratified analysis demonstrated a significant positive association between EtO and stroke in individuals under 50 years (OR = 1.94, 95%CI: 1.38-2.72), while no significant association was found in those aged 50 and above (OR = 0.97, 95%CI: 0.83-1.14).

Conclusion

This study identified a significant association between EtO exposure and stroke occurrence in young adults in the United States.

Characterisation of young stroke presentations, pathways of care, and support for 'invisible' difficulties: a retrospective clinical audit study

Background Young stroke survivors are likely to be discharged home from acute hospital care without rehabilitation more quickly than older survivors, but it is not clear why. File-audit studies capturing real-world clinical practice are lacking for this cohort. We aimed to compare characteristics and care pathways of young and older survivors and describe stroke presentations and predictors of pathways of care in young survivors (≤45years), including a focus on care received for 'invisible' (cognitive, psychological) difficulties. Methods A retrospective audit of 847 medical records (67 young stroke survivors, mean age=36years; 780 older patients, mean age=70years) was completed for stroke survivors admitted to an Australian tertiary hospital. Stroke characteristics and presence of cognitive difficulties (identified through clinician opinion or cognitive screening) were used to predict length of stay and discharge destination in young stroke survivors. Results There were no differences in length of stay between young and older survivors, however, young stroke survivors were more likely to be discharged home without rehabilitation (though this may be due to milder strokes observed in young stroke survivors). For young stroke survivors, stroke severity and age predicted discharge destination, while cognitive difficulties predicted longer length of stay. While almost all young survivors were offered occupational therapy and physiotherapy, none received psychological input (clinical, health or neuropsychology). Conclusions Cognitive and psychological needs of young stroke survivors may remain largely unmet by a service model designed for older people. Findings can inform service development or models of care, such as the new Australian Young Stroke Service designed to better meet the needs of young survivors.

Predictors of social risk for post-ischemic stroke reintegration

After stroke rehabilitation, patients need to reintegrate back into their daily life, workplace and society. Reintegration involves complex processes depending on age, sex, stroke severity, cognitive, physical, as well as socioeconomic factors that impact long-term outcomes post-stroke. Moreover, post-stroke quality of life can be impacted by social risks of inadequate family, social, economic, housing and other supports needed by the patients. Social risks and barriers to successful reintegration are poorly understood yet critical for informing clinical or social interventions. Therefore, the aim of this work is to predict social risk at rehabilitation discharge using sociodemographic and clinical variables at rehabilitation admission and identify factors that contribute to this risk. A Gradient Boosting modelling methodology based on decision trees was applied to a Catalan 217-patient cohort of mostly young (mean age 52.7), male (66.4%), ischemic stroke survivors. The modelling task was to predict an individual's social risk upon discharge from rehabilitation based on 16 different demographic, diagnostic and social risk variables (family support, social support, economic status, cohabitation and home accessibility at admission). To correct for imbalance in patient sample numbers with high and low-risk levels (prediction target), five different datasets were prepared by varying the data subsampling methodology. For each of the five datasets a prediction model was trained and the analysis involves a comparison across these models. The training and validation results indicated that the models corrected for prediction target imbalance have similarly good performance (AUC 0.831-0.843) and validation (AUC 0.881 - 0.909). Furthermore, predictor variable importance ranked social support and economic status as the most important variables with the greatest contribution to social risk prediction, however, sex and age had a lesser, but still important, contribution. Due to the complex and multifactorial nature of social risk, factors in combination, including social support and economic status, drive social risk for individuals.

Association of Traditional and Nontraditional Risk Factors in the Development of Strokes Among Young Adults by Sex and Age Group: A Retrospective Case-Control Study

BACKGROUND

Despite women having fewer traditional risk factors (eg, hypertension, diabetes), strokes are more common in women than men aged ≤45 years. This study examined the contributions of traditional and nontraditional risk factors (eg, migraine, thrombophilia) in the development of strokes among young adults.

METHODS

This retrospective case-control study used Colorado's All Payer Claims Database (2012-2019). We identified index stroke events in young adults (aged 18-55 years), matched 1:3 to stroke-free controls, by (1) sex, (2) age±2 years, (3) insurance type, and (4) prestroke period. All traditional and nontraditional risk factors were identified from enrollment until a stroke or proxy-stroke date (defined as the prestroke period). Conditional logistic regression models stratified by sex and age group first assessed the association of stroke with counts of risk factors by type and then computed their individual and aggregated population attributable risks.

RESULTS

We included 2618 cases (52% women; 73.3% ischemic strokes) and 7827 controls. Each additional traditional and nontraditional risk factors were associated with an increased risk of stroke in all sex and age groups. In adults aged 18 to 34 years, more strokes were associated with nontraditional (population attributable risk: 31.4% men and 42.7% women) than traditional risk factors (25.3% men and 33.3% women). The contribution of nontraditional risk factors declined with age (19.4% men and 27.9% women aged 45-55 years). The contribution of traditional risk factors peaked among patients aged 35 to 44 years (32.8% men and 39.7% women). Hypertension was the most important traditional risk factor and increased in contribution with age (population attributable risk: 27.8% men and 26.7% women aged 45 to 55 years). Migraine was the most important nontraditional risk factor and decreased in contribution with age (population attributable risk: 20.1% men and 34.5% women aged 18-35 years).

CONCLUSIONS

Nontraditional risk factors were as important as traditional risk factors in the development of strokes for both young men and women and have a stronger association with the development of strokes in adults younger than 35 years of age.

Global trends and burden of stroke attributable to particulate matter pollution from 1990 to 2019

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between particulate matter and the incidence, disability, and mortality of stroke, we reported the burden of stroke attributable to particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution, including ambient particulate matter pollution (APMP) and household air pollution from solid fuels (HAP), from 1990 to 2019.

METHODS

We retrieved the detailed data on the burden of stroke attributable to PM2.5 from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2019. The number of disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) and deaths, age-standardized death rates (ASMR), and age-standardized disability-adjusted life-years rates (ASDR) attributable to PM2.5 were estimated by age, sex, geographical location, socio-demographic index (SDI), and stroke subtypes (ischemic stroke, intracerebral hemorrhage, and subarachnoid hemorrhage). The estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) was calculated to assess the trends in ASDR and ASMR during the period 1990-2019.

RESULTS

Regarding stroke subtypes, the proportion of ischemic stroke burden is increasing, while intracerebral hemorrhage carries the heaviest burden. Both APMP and HAP contributed the most to stroke-related deaths and DALYs of stroke among the elderly populations and males. The highest ASDR and ASMR of stroke attributable to APMP were in the middle SDI regions, especially in East Asia. For HAP, the highest ASDR and ASMR were in the low SDI regions, mainly in Oceania. From 1990-2019, in terms of the EAPC results, APMP caused an increased burden of stroke, whereas the impact of HAP significantly fell. The most pronounced increase in ASDR and ASMR for strokes attributed to APMP were in the low-middle SDI and low SDI regions, particularly among the 25-35 age group.

CONCLUSIONS

Stroke attributed to PM2.5 is a global health problem, and the patterns and trends were heterogeneous across APMP and HAP. Targeted interventions should be formulated for APMP and HAP.

Trends in prevalence, risk factor control and medications in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease among US Adults, 1999-2018

Objectives

Trends in prevalence and treatments of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) remains to be documented, with frequent update of relevant guidelines. We aimed to characterize trends in prevalence of ASCVD, and risk factor control and medications among ASCVD adults.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of data from 55,081 adults in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) 1999-2018.

Results

The age-standardized prevalence of ASCVD did not change significantly from 1999-2002 (7.9 %, 95 % CI 7.1 %-8.7 %) to 2015-2018 (7.5 %, CI 6.8 %-8.3 %) (P for trend =0.18), representing an estimated 19.9 million individuals with ASCVD in 2015-2018. The prevalence of premature ASCVD was 2.0 % (CI, 1.6 %-2.5 %). Over 60.0 % of ASCVD participants were at very-high risk. From 1999-2002 to 2015-2018, the percentage with lipid control (non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol <100 mg/dL) increased from 7.0 % (CI, 3.5 %-12.3 %) to 26.4 % (CI, 16.2 %-38.9 %). The percentage with blood-pressure control (<130/80 mmHg) increased from 51.2 % (CI, 41.0 %-61.3 %) in 1999-2002 to 57.2 % (CI, 48.4 %-65.6 %) in 2011-2014, but then declined to 52.8 % (CI, 44.4 %-81.3 %) in 2015-2018. The percentage with glycemic control (HbA1c <7.0 %) decreased from 95.0 % (CI, 90.2 %-97.9 %) to 84.0 % (CI, 75.9 %-90.3 %). The percentage who achieved all 3 targets was 18.6 % (CI, 8.2 %-33.8 %) in 2015-2018. The percentage of ASCVD participants who were taking statins increased from 1999-2002 to 2011-2014, but then leveled off. Approximately 60 % of individuals with ASCVD and less than 40 % of those with premature ASCVD were taking statins in 2015-2018. The utilization of blood-pressure-lowering drugs remained largely constant over time, whereas the use of glucose-lowering drugs increased.

Conclusions

Based on NHANES data from US adults, the estimated prevalence of ASCVD remained relatively stable between 1999 and 2018. Substantial undertreatment with stains was found in individuals with ASCVD, and the percentage achieving optimal lipid control was low.

The effect of the interaction of sleep onset latency and age on ischemic stroke severity via inflammatory chemokines

Objective

Prolonged sleep onset latency (PSOL) and age have been linked to ischemic stroke (IS) severity and the production of chemokines and inflammation, both of which contribute to IS development. This study aimed to explore the relationship between chemokines, inflammation, and the interplay between sleep onset latency (SOL) and age in influencing stroke severity.

Methods

A cohort of 281 participants with mild to moderate IS was enrolled. Stroke severity was assessed using the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), and SOL was recorded. Serum levels of macrophage inflammatory protein-1alpha (MIP-1α), macrophage inflammatory protein-1beta (MIP-1β), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) were measured.

Results

NIHSS scores of middle-aged participants with PSOL were significantly higher than those with normal sleep onset latency (NSOL) (p = 0.046). This difference was also observed when compared to both the elderly with NSOL (p = 0.022), and PSOL (p < 0.001). Among middle-aged adults with PSOL, MIP-1β exhibited a protective effect on NIHSS scores (β = -0.01, t = -2.11, p = 0.039, R2 = 0.13). MIP-1α demonstrated a protective effect on NIHSS scores in the elderly with NSOL (β = -0.03, t = -2.27, p = 0.027, R2 = 0.12).

Conclusion

This study reveals a hitherto undocumented association between PSOL and IS severity, along with the potential protective effects of MIP-1β in mitigating stroke severity, especially among middle-aged patients.

Recurrent vascular events partially explain association between diabetes and poor prognosis in young ischemic stroke patients

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Stroke is the second leading cause of death and third leading cause of disability worldwide. There is an increasing incidence of stroke among the young. In this study, we aimed to identify factors associated with poor long-term prognosis in young stroke patients.

METHODS

In this longitudinal observational study, we recruited 147 young ischemic stroke patients within one week of ischemic stroke and followed them up for functional outcome (modified Rankin score (mRS)), recurrent vascular events, and recurrent hospitalisation. Poor function was labelled as mRS score of 3 and above. We performed univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses to determine factors associated with poor long term functional outcome.

RESULTS

At a median follow-up of 7-years, 32 (22%) of the 147 patients had poor functional outcome. In multivariable analyses, diabetes mellitus (OR = 9.01, CI 3.15 to 26.92), was the only independent predictor of poor function. In analyses stratified by diabetic status, recurrent vascular events (OR = 4.47, CI 1.40 to 14.28) were associated with poor functional outcome within young diabetic patients but not in non-diabetic patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that diabetes mellitus affects long-term functional outcome in young ischemic stroke and that its effect is mediated partly by recurrent vascular events.

DATA ACCESS STATEMENT

Data obtained from Multi-Centre Retinal study (MCRS), Singapore site. Data cannot be made publicly available due to potentially identifiable research participant information.

Stem cell-based ischemic stroke therapy: Novel modifications and clinical challenges

Ischemic stroke (IS) causes severe disability and high mortality worldwide. Stem cell (SC) therapy exhibits unique therapeutic potential for IS that differs from current treatments. SC's cell homing, differentiation and paracrine abilities give hope for neuroprotection. Recent studies on SC modification have enhanced therapeutic effects for IS, including gene transfection, nanoparticle modification, biomaterial modification and pretreatment. These methods improve survival rate, homing, neural differentiation, and paracrine abilities in ischemic areas. However, many problems must be resolved before SC therapy can be clinically applied. These issues include production quality and quantity, stability during transportation and storage, as well as usage regulations. Herein, we reviewed the brief pathogenesis of IS, the "multi-mechanism" advantages of SCs for treating IS, various SC modification methods, and SC therapy challenges. We aim to uncover the potential and overcome the challenges of using SCs for treating IS and convey innovative ideas for modifying SCs.

Processing Speed and Attentional Shift/Mental Flexibility in Patients with Stroke: A Comprehensive Review on the Trail Making Test in Stroke Studies

The Trail Making Test (TMT) is one of the most commonly administered tests in clinical and research neuropsychological settings. The two parts of the test (part A (TMT-A) and part B (TMT-B)) enable the evaluation of visuoperceptual tracking and processing speed (TMT-A), as well as divided attention, set-shifting and cognitive flexibility (TMT-B). The main cognitive processes that are assessed using TMT, i.e., processing speed, divided attention, and cognitive flexibility, are often affected in patients with stroke. Considering the wide use of TMT in research and clinical settings since its introduction in neuropsychological practice, the purpose of our review was to provide a comprehensive overview of the use of TMT in stroke patients. We present the most representative studies assessing processing speed and attentional shift/mental flexibility in stroke settings using TMT and applying scoring methods relying on conventional TMT scores (e.g., time-to-complete part A and part B), as well as derived measures (e.g., TMT-(B-A) difference score, TMT-(B/A) ratio score, errors in part A and part B). We summarize the cognitive processes commonly associated with TMT performance in stroke patients (e.g., executive functions), lesion characteristics and neuroanatomical underpinning of TMT performance post-stroke, the association between TMT performance and patients' instrumental activities of daily living, motor difficulties, speech difficulties, and mood statue, as well as their driving ability. We also highlight how TMT can serve as an objective marker of post-stroke cognitive recovery following the implementation of interventions. Our comprehensive review underscores that the TMT stands as an invaluable asset in the stroke assessment toolkit, contributing nuanced insights into diverse cognitive, functional, and emotional dimensions. As research progresses, continued exploration of the TMT potential across these domains is encouraged, fostering a deeper comprehension of post-stroke dynamics and enhancing patient-centered care across hospitals, rehabilitation centers, research institutions, and community health settings. Its integration into both research and clinical practice reaffirms TMT status as an indispensable instrument in stroke-related evaluations, enabling holistic insights that extend beyond traditional neurological assessments.

Effects of the royal jelly consumption on post-stroke complications in patients with ischemic stroke: results of a randomized controlled trial

Aims

There is a paucity of evidence regarding the benefit of royal jelly (RJ) on post-stroke complications in patients with ischemic stroke. To address this knowledge gap, this randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was carried out to determine the effects of RJ consumption on post-stroke clinical outcomes.

Methods

Of 64 eligible ischemic stroke patients (45-80 years), 32 were randomized to the RJ and 32 to the placebo groups and completed a 12-week intervention. The intervention group was advised to receive 1,000 mg of RJ dragee daily after breakfast. Post-stroke complications including cognition, fatigue, mental health, and appetite, along with serum levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) were assessed in groups pre-and post-intervention.

Results

After 12 weeks of RJ consumption, cognitive function [adjusted mean difference, 4.71; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.75 to 7.67], serum levels of BDNF (adjusted mean difference, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.05 to 0.67), stress (adjusted mean difference, -3.33; 95% CI, -6.50 to -0.17), and appetite (adjusted mean difference, 1.38; 95% CI, 0.19 to 2.56) were significantly improved. However, the findings for fatigue (adjusted mean difference, -4.32; 95% CI, -10.28 to 1.63), depression (adjusted mean difference, -1.71; 95% CI, -5.58 to 2.16), anxiety (adjusted mean difference, -2.50; 95% CI, -5.50 to 0.49), and MUAC (adjusted mean difference, 0.36; 95% CI, -0.11 to 0.84) were less favorable.

Conclusion

Findings support the benefits of RJ consumption in improving post-stroke complications and clinical outcomes.Clinical trial registration: https://www.irct.ir/trial/59275, Identifier IRCT20180818040827N4.

[Ischemic stroke in men 18-50 years of age]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the main modifiable risk factors for ischemic stroke (IS) and features of the course in atherothrombotic, cardioembolic, and lacunar subtypes of IS in men aged 18-50 years.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 125 men (the mean age was 42.6±5.3 years) who were admitted to the Vascular department before the COVID-19 pandemic and survived for the first 30 days after IS. Information on patients' baseline characteristics, traditional vascular risk factors, and lifestyle risk factors was systematically collected. Neuroimaging, ultrasound and laboratory tests were performed.

RESULTS

Atherothrombotic subtype was identified in 60 patients, lacunar subtype in 46 patients and cardioembolic subtype in 19 patients. In the group as a whole, major risk factors included arterial hypertension (83.2%), dyslipidemia (50.4%), smoking (67.2%), alcohol consumption (29.6%), obesity (16.8%), heart rhythm disorders (12%), and diabetes mellitus (8%).

CONCLUSION

The study revealed the main risk factors, the frequency of which differed depending on the stroke subtype and the age of the patients.

Prevalence, Trajectory, and Predictors of Poststroke Pain: Retrospective Analysis of Pooled Clinical Trial Data Set

BACKGROUND

Poststroke pain remains underdiagnosed and inadequately managed. To inform the optimum time to initiate interventions, we examined prevalence, trajectory, and participant factors associated with poststroke pain.

METHODS

Eligible studies from the VISTA (Virtual International Stroke Trials Archives) included an assessment of pain. Analyses of individual participant data examined demography, pain, mobility, independence, language, anxiety/depression, and vitality. Pain assessments were standardized to the European Quality of Life Scale (European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions 3 Level) pain domain, describing no, moderate, or extreme pain. We described pain prevalence, associations between participant characteristics, and pain using multivariable models.

RESULTS

From 94 studies (n>48 000 individual participant data) in VISTA, 10 (n=10 002 individual participant data) included a pain assessment. Median age was 70.0 years (interquartile range [59.0-77.1]), 5560 (55.6%) were male, baseline stroke severity was National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score 10 (interquartile range [7-15]). Reports of extreme pain ranged between 3% and 9.5% and were highest beyond 2 years poststroke (31/328 [9.5%]); pain trajectory varied by study. Poorer independence was significantly associated with presence of moderate or extreme pain (5 weeks-3 months odds ratio [OR], 1.5 [95% CI, 1.4-1.6]; 4-6 months OR, 1.7 [95% CI, 1.3-2.1]; >6 months OR, 1.5 [95% CI, 1.2-2.0]), and increased severity of pain (5 weeks-3 months: OR, 1.2 [95% CI, 1.1-1.2]; 4-6 months OR, 1.1 [95% CI, 1.1-1.2]; >6 months, OR, 1.2 [95% CI, 1.1-1.2]), after adjusting for covariates. Anxiety/depression and lower vitality were each associated with pain severity.

CONCLUSIONS

Between 3% and 9.5% of participants reported extreme poststroke pain; the presence and severity of pain were independently associated with dependence at each time point. Future studies could determine whether and when interventions may reduce the prevalence and severity of poststroke pain.

Changes in depressive symptoms before and after the first stroke: A longitudinal study from China Family Panel Study (CFPS)

OBJECTIVES

The study sought to examine the impact of longitudinal changes in depressive symptoms in middle-aged adults before and after their first stroke, and the impact of different ages.

METHODS

The study monitored middle-aged patients with a first stroke in the China Family Panel Study (CFPS) survey from 2016 to 2020. This study examined longitudinal changes in depressive symptoms in middle-aged adults and their controls before and after stroke using multilevel models, and also explored factors influencing middle-aged adults at the time of their respective stroke and depressive symptoms using conditional regression models and stepwise regression models, respectively. A chi-square test was used to determine whether long-term changes in depressive symptoms in patients before and after stroke could be attributed to changes in a single depressive symptom.

RESULTS

The study identified 582 first-time stroke patients and 5522 controls from a population of 17,588 participants. Middle-aged populations may have an increased risk of depressive symptoms after a first stroke compared to older populations. First-time stroke victims showed increased severity of depressive symptoms in both the two years before and the two years after stroke when depressive symptoms were assessed. Differences in the presentation of a single depressive symptom were most pronounced in sleep-related symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

The link between first stroke and changes in the trajectory of increased depressive symptoms is complex and bidirectional. Age is an important factor influencing changes in depressive symptoms, some attention should be paid to the middle-aged population. Special attention should also be paid to sleep-related symptoms in the long-term care of patients.

Endovascular treatment for young patients with acute large vessel occlusion stroke in China: analysis of the ANGEL-ACT registry

Background

The incidence of acute ischemic stroke caused by large vessel occlusion is relatively infrequent in the young adult population. We sought to evaluate their clinical outcomes after endovascular treatment (EVT) and stroke etiology compared with older patients.

Methods

We examined data from the ANGEL-ACT registry, a nationwide study in China focusing on EVT for acute ischemic stroke. We compared two age groups: <50 years old and ≥50 years old. Our analysis focused on outcome measures such as the 90-day modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score, mortality, and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH). We adjusted for confounding variables.

Results

We included 1,691 patients, and 216 patients (13%) were <50 years old. Young patients had lower median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores (14 vs. 17, P < 0.001) and fewer cardiovascular comorbidities than older patients. Underlying intracranial atherosclerosis disease (ICAD) was higher in young patients (39.4 vs. 28.7%, P = 0.001). Clinical outcome was less favorable in older compared to younger patients (mRS shift: 0.76 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.58-0.99]); functional independence [mRS score 0-2] 61% vs. 39% (adjusted odds ratio (OR), 0.7 [95% CI, 0.51-0.97]). Mortality and sICH did not differ between groups. Onset to puncture time (OTP) was longer in young patients (357 min vs. 294 min, P = 0.001).

Conclusion

An estimated 13% of patients who underwent endovascular thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke were <50 years old. Symptomatic underlying ICAD was more prevalent in the younger patient population. Despite a prehospital delay, younger patients exhibited more favorable outcomes than their older counterparts.

Sex Differences of Hospital and Emergency Department Presentations of Stroke in Canada

We provide an updated estimate of adult stroke event rates by age group, sex, and stroke type using Canadian administrative data. In the 2017-2018 fiscal year, there were an estimated 81,781 hospital or emergency department visits for stroke events in Canada, excluding Quebec. Our findings show that overall, the event rate of stroke is similar between women and men. There were slight differences in stroke event rate at various ages by sex and stroke type and emerging patterns warrant attention in future studies. Our findings emphasize the importance of continuous surveillance to monitor the epidemiology of stroke in Canada.

Associations of effort-reward imbalance at work and quality of life among workers after stroke: a one-year longitudinal study in Thailand

Stroke incidence is increasing among working-age population, but the role of psychosocial stress in the workplace in predicting quality of life (QoL) after stroke onset is understudied. This longitudinal study aimed to investigate the relationship between work stress, measured by the effort-reward imbalance (ERI) model, and QoL over one-year period among 103 Thai workers who had experienced a stroke. The study evaluated the effort (E)-reward (R) ratio and over-commitment, the extrinsic and intrinsic components of the ERI model, before discharge; QoL was repeatedly measured at baseline, six months, and 12 months after discharge, respectively, using the Short Form Version 2 (SF-12v2) indicators of physical and mental health composite scores. Generalized estimating equations were used to examine longitudinal relationships between work stress at baseline and QoL over one year by testing the hypotheses that E-R ratio and over-commitment would have direct effects on QoL, and potential moderating effects of over-commitment on E-R ratio and QoL. The results supported the ERI model partially, as over-commitment was significantly associated with poor mental health (coefficient - 8.50; 95% CI: -13.79, -3.20) after adjusting baseline sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical characteristics, while the E-R ratio was not significantly associated with physical or mental health; the interaction between the E-R ratio and over-commitment was also not significant. These findings suggest that more attention should be paid to workers' personal coping skills and ability to handle work-related problems and prioritize interventions that address over-commitment to promote long-term mental health among workers with stroke.

Effect of a Hospital-To-Home Transitional Intervention Based on an Interaction Model of Client Health Behavior for Adult Patients with Stroke

To develop and identify the effectiveness of a hospital-to-home transitional intervention based on an interaction model of client health behavior in adult patients with stroke. A non-equivalent control group pretest-posttest. Thirty-eight patients participated (18=intervention, 20=control); the intervention group received 12 weeks of the intervention. The intervention influenced anxiety, disease severity, health behavior adherence, patient satisfaction, and quality of life in adult patients with stroke. Transitional programs have potential to improve the health behaviors of subjects, and community health nurses can assist in the implementation of these programs. Health behaviors and quality of life scores were significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group; these findings support the need for continuity of nursing care during the transitional period for patients with stroke. Given the challenges faced by adult stroke patients after stroke, community nurses should pay attention to patients' transitional experiences.

Review of Cerebral Radiotherapy-Induced Vasculopathy in Pediatric and Adult Patients

Radiation therapy (RT) causes radiation-induced vasculopathy, which requires clinicians to identify and manage this side effect in pediatric and adult patients. This article reviews previous findings about the pathophysiology of RT-induced vascular injury, including endothelial cell injury, oxidative stress, inflammatory cytokines, angiogenic pathways, and remodeling. The vasculopathy is categorized into ischemic vasculopathy, hemorrhagic vasculopathy, carotid artery injury, and other malformations (cavernous malformations and aneurysms) in populations of pediatric and adult patients separately. The prevention and management of this RT-induced side effect are also discussed. The article summarizes the distribution and risk factors of different types of RT-induced vasculopathy. This will help clinicians identify high-risk patients with corresponding vasculopathy subtypes to deduce prevention and treatment strategies accordingly.

Effect of an educational intervention to increase stroke awareness among Italian high school students: A prospective study in Tuscany

INTRODUCTION

Stroke in young people shares traditional modifiable risk factors with older groups, and greatly affects quality of life. However, evidence on the effectiveness of educational interventions in young populations, aiming at spreading stroke knowledge and enhancing prevention, is still scarce. We evaluated baseline knowledge of stroke and possible improvements after an educational intervention among Italian high school students, also considering differences related to sex and type of school.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Using a mixed educational strategy, a prospective evaluation of stroke knowledge was performed in five humanities and sciences (lyceums) and five vocational high schools of Tuscany (students of the 12th and 13th grade). A baseline assessment with a structured questionnaire (21 questions) was followed by a standardized oral presentation, using audiovisual materials. After 3 months, the same questionnaire was re-administered to evaluate the long-term impact of the educational intervention.

RESULTS

Overall, 573 students (50.8% males; age range, 17-19 years) were enrolled; 288 (50.3%) were from lyceums and 285 (49.7%) from vocational schools. Follow-up participation was 97.2%. Baseline performances were comparable between groups for most variables examined. At 3 months, all groups showed a significant improvement from baseline regarding reaction to a stroke event, identification of stroke risk factors, such as smoking (from 62.9% to 83.7%; p < 0.001) and alcohol abuse (from 49.6% to 67.2%; p < 0.001), and symptoms. Knowledge of the existence of stroke units and thrombolysis increased from 25.4% to 60.7% (p < 0.001) and from 35.8% to 84.0% (p < 0.001), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our educational intervention improved stroke awareness in high school students. The effects persisted after 3 months. Improved knowledge in young populations may reduce stroke burden in adult life, increase timely access to therapies, and spread knowledge across families.

Long-term risk of recurrent vascular events and mortality in young stroke patients: Insights from a multicenter study

BACKGROUND

Although the incidence of stroke in the young is rising, data on long-term outcomes in these patients are scarce. We thus aimed to investigate the long-term risk of recurrent vascular events and mortality in a multicenter study.

METHODS

We followed 396 consecutive patients aged 18-55 years with ischemic stroke (IS) or transient ischemic attack (TIA) enrolled in three European centers during the period 2007-2010. A detailed outpatient clinical follow-up assessment was performed between 2018 and 2020. When an in-person follow-up visit was not possible, outcome events were assessed using electronic records and registry data.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up of 11.8 (IQR 10.4-12.7) years, 89 (22.5%) patients experienced any recurrent vascular event, 62 (15.7%) had any cerebrovascular event, 34 (8.6%) had other vascular events, and 27 (6.8%) patients died. Cumulative 10-year incidence rate per 1000 person-years was 21.6 (95% CI 17.1-26.9) for any recurrent vascular event and 14.9 (95% CI 11.3-19.3) for any cerebrovascular event. The prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors increased over time, and 22 (13.5%) patients lacked any secondary preventive medication at the in-person follow-up. After adjustment for demographics and comorbidities, atrial fibrillation at baseline was found to be significantly associated with recurrent vascular events.

CONCLUSIONS

This multicenter study shows a considerable risk of recurrent vascular events in young IS and TIA patients. Further studies should investigate whether detailed individual risk assessment, modern secondary preventive strategies, and better patient adherence may reduce recurrence risk.

In-hospital recurrence and functional outcome between ischemic stroke caused by intracranial arterial dissection and intracranial atherosclerosis: Retrospective cohort study of the nationwide multicenter registry

BACKGROUND

Intracranial arterial dissection (ICAD) and intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS) are often difficult to differentiate, and studies on their background factors and prognosis are scarce. Information on prognosis, including recurrence, is necessary for stroke care, and clarification of epidemiological and clinical differences between the two diseases is important for appropriately handling their heterogeneity. This study aimed to determine the association of ICAD and ICAS with in-hospital recurrence and prognosis and compare their background and clinical findings.

METHODS

In this multicenter cohort study, we retrospectively analyzed data from the Saiseikai Stroke Database. Adults with ischemic stroke caused by ICAD or ICAS were included in this study. Patients' backgrounds and clinical findings were compared between the ICAD and ICAS groups. The outcome showed an association of ICAD with in-hospital recurrence of ischemic stroke and poor functional outcome relative to ICAS. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to calculate the adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for ICAD with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for each outcome.

RESULTS

Among 15,622 patients registered in the Saiseikai Stroke Database, 2,020 were enrolled (ICAD group: 89; ICAS group: 1,931). In the ICAD group, 65.2% of the patients were aged <64 years. Vascular lesion location was more common in ICAD with the vertebral artery [42 (47.2%)], anterior cerebral artery [20 (22.5%)], and middle cerebral artery (MCA) [16 (18.0%)], and in ICAS with MCA 1046 (52.3%). Multivariable logistic regression analyses of the association between ICAD and in-hospital recurrence and poor functional outcome yielded a crude OR (95% CI) of 3.26 (1.06-9.97) and 0.97 (0.54-1.74), respectively, relative to ICAS.

CONCLUSION

ICAD was associated with a higher in-hospital recurrence than ICAS; however, there was no significant difference in prognosis between the two groups. Differences in background characteristics and vessel lesions may be of interest in these two diseases.

Stroke in Young Adults

Stroke in young adults is associated with significant morbidity, and its prevalence is rising in the United States. This is partly attributed to a rise in the prevalence of traditional risk factors including hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, obesity, diabetes mellitus, smoking and heart disease. In addition, there are non-modifiable risk factors comprising migraine, pregnancy and postpartum state, illicit drug use, oral contraceptives and hypercoagulable state. The mechanisms causing stroke in young adults are unique and include cervical dissection, cardioembolic phenomenon, vasculitis and vasculopathy, connective tissue disease, patent foramen ovale and cerebral venous thrombosis. The diagnosis of stroke in the young population can be challenging given its myriad clinical presentations. In this document, we provide an overview of the epidemiology of stroke in young adults, explore mechanisms that may explain increasing rates of stroke in this population, and provide a critical updated overview of the existing literature on the management and prevention of stroke in young adults.

Predictors of favorable outcome and mortality after endovascular thrombectomy in young Chinese patients with large vascular occlusions

Background

Endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) has evolved into the standard treatment for patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and large vessel occlusion (LVO). However, little information is available on the management of EVT in young patients with AIS-LVO in China. The purpose of this study was to assess the favorable outcomes and mortality rates after 90 days of EVT in young Chinese patients with AIS-LVO and their predictors.

Methods

This retrospective study included young Chinese patients aged 18-50 years with AIS-LVO. The primary efficacy endpoint was the modified Rankin scale (mRS) score at day 90, and the primary safety endpoint was mortality within 90 days. Using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses, the associations between clinical, imaging, and procedure variables and favorable (mRS 0-2) outcomes or mortality at 90 days were analyzed.

Results

A total of 113 patients were included in the study with a mean age of 43.1 ± 6.3 years. Symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) occurred in 8 (7.1%) patients. Favorable functional outcomes (mRS 0-2) were recovered in 42.5% of patients at 3 months. After 90 days, the mortality rate was 32.3%. Multivariate analysis revealed that the increase in admission NIHSS score was associated with a lower probability of functional independence (aOR 1.08, 95% CI 1.02-1.15, p = 0.01 and aOR 1.01, 95% CI 1-1.01, p = 0.008, respectively) and a higher probability of death at 90 days (aOR 1.1, 95% CI 1.03-1.18, p = 0.007 and aOR 1.00, 95% CI 1-1.01, p = 0.021, respectively).

Conclusion

This study demonstrate that EVT provides higher rates of arterial recanalization, rather than better favorable outcomes and lower risk of death at 3 months in young Chinese patients with AIS-LVO. Increased NIHSS scores on admission may be associated with poor patient prognosis.

Young patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy have increased rates of recurrent disease and late neurological events

OBJECTIVES

There are few data regarding outcomes of patients with premature cerebrovascular disease (age ≤55 years) who undergo carotid endarterectomy (CEA). The objective of this study was to analyze the demographics, presentation, perioperative and later outcomes of younger patients undergoing CEA.

METHODS

The Society for Vascular Surgery Vascular Quality Initiative was queried for CEA cases between 2012 and 2022. Patients were stratified based on age of less than 55 or age greater than 55 years. Primary end points were periprocedural stroke, death, myocardial infarction, and composite outcomes. Secondary end points included restenosis (≥80%) or occlusion, late neurological events and reintervention.

RESULTS

Of 120,549 patients undergoing CEA, 7009 (5.5%) were 55 years old or younger (mean age, 51.3 years). Younger patients were more likely to be African American (7.7% vs 4.5%; P < .001), female (45.2% vs 38.9%; P < .001), and active smokers (57.3% vs 24.1%; P < .001). They were less likely than older patients to have hypertension (82.5% vs 89.7%; P < .001), coronary artery disease (25.0% vs 27.3%; P < .001), and congestive heart failure (7.8% vs 11.4%; P < .001). Younger patients were significantly less likely than older patients to be on aspirin, anticoagulation, statins, or beta-blockers, but were more likely to be taking P2Y12 inhibitors (37.2 vs 33.7%; P < .001). Younger patients were more likely to present with symptomatic disease (35.1% vs 27.6%; P < .001) and were more likely to undergo nonelective CEA (19.2% vs 12.8%; P < .001). Younger and older patients had similar rates of perioperative stroke/death (2% vs 2%; P = NS) and postoperative neurological events (1.9% vs 1.8%; P = NS). However, younger patients had lower rates of overall postoperative complications compared with their older counterparts (3.7% vs 4.7%; P < .001). Of these patients, 72.6% had recorded follow-up (mean, 13 months). During follow-up, younger patients were significantly more likely than older patients to experience a late failure, defined as significant restenosis (≥80%) or complete occlusion of the operated artery (2.4% vs 1.5%; P < .001) and were more likely to experience any neurological event (3.1% vs 2.3%; P < .001). Reintervention rates did not significantly differ between the two cohorts. After controlling for covariates using a logistic regression model, age 55 years or younger was independently associated with increased odds of late restenosis or occlusion (odds ratio, 1.591; 95% confidence interval, 1.221-2.073; P < .001) as well as late neurological events (odds ratio, 1.304; 95% confidence interval, 1.079-1.576; P = .006).

CONCLUSIONS

Young patients undergoing CEA are more likely to be African American, female, and active smokers. They are more likely to present symptomatically and undergo nonelective CEA. Although perioperative outcomes are similar, younger patients are more likely to experience carotid occlusion or restenosis as well as subsequent neurological events, during a relatively short follow-up period. These data suggest that younger CEA patients may require more diligent follow-up, as well as a continued aggressive approach to medical management of atherosclerosis to prevent future events related to the operated artery, given the particularly aggressive nature of premature atherosclerosis.

Risk Factors, Incidence, and Outcome of Stroke: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Hospital-Based Study Comparing Young Adults and Elderly

A noticeable increase of up to 40% in the incidence of stroke among young population over the past decade has been noted. This study aimed to investigate the incidence, risk factors, and outcomes of stroke and its subtypes in young adults compared to older population. A retrospective study of patients which included patients with confirmed diagnosis of stroke based on the International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision (ICD-10) classification between the years 2018 and 2020 was conducted. The results indicated that patients less than 45 years of age had a higher incidence of hemorrhagic stroke as compared to the other age groups (p=0.011). Hypertension leading to hemorrhagic stroke was higher in patients less than 45 years of age as compared to other groups (18 years {19.4%} versus 33 years {7.5%}, p=0.001). Hypertension was noted to be the leading risk factor for stroke among the younger population.

Association between smoking and intracranial artery dissection in patients aged less than 50 years: A propensity score-matched analysis

INTRODUCTION

Smoking is a common risk factor for stroke in the young population. Intracranial artery dissection (ICAD) is a major cause of stroke in this population. However, the association between smoking and ICAD in young patients is not well characterized. We aimed to evaluate the association between smoking and ICAD in young individuals using propensity score-matched analysis.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study of consecutive patients aged <50 years with ICAD who were admitted to Beijing Tiantan Hospital between January 2016 and December 2020. Patients with other non-atherosclerotic/non-aneurysmal cerebrovascular diseases were selected as controls. Propensity score matching was based on age and sex. Smoking and other vascular risk factors were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The ICAD and control group included 120 and 197 patients, respectively. Propensity score matching resulted in 70 matched pairs. Smoking was the only significant factor association with ICAD in the matched cohort (p=0.031).

CONCLUSIONS

In this propensity score-matched analysis, smoking showed a positive association with ICAD in young patients with common cerebrovascular diseases that were neither atherosclerotic nor aneurysmal. Further studies are required to investigate the predictive role of smoking for ICAD in the young population.

Risk Factors for Stroke in the Young (18-45 Years): A Case-Control Analysis of INTERSTROKE Data from 32 Countries

BACKGROUND

It is not clear whether conventional vascular risk factors are responsible for most strokes in patients younger than 45 years of age. Our objective was to evaluate the association of common risk factors with stroke in individuals under 45 years.

METHODS

INTERSTROKE was a case-control study carried out in 32 countries between 2007 and 2015. Patients presenting within 5 days of symptom onset of a first stroke were enrolled as cases. Controls were age and sex matched to cases and had no history of stroke. Cases and controls underwent similar evaluations. Odds ratios (ORs) and population attributable risks (PARs) were calculated to determine the association of various risk factors with all stroke, ischemic stroke, and intracranial hemorrhage, for patients 45 years of age or younger.

FINDINGS

1,582 case-control pairs were included in this analysis. The mean age of this cohort was 38.5 years (SD 6.32). Overall, 71% strokes were ischemic. Cardiac causes {OR: 8.42 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.01-23.5)}; binge drinking of alcohol (OR: 5.44 [95% CI: 1.81-16.4]); hypertension (OR: 5.41 [95% CI: 3.40-8.58]); ApoB/ApoA1 ratio (OR: 2.74 [95% CI: 1.69-4.46]); psychosocial stress (OR: 2.33 [95% CI: 1.01-5.41]); smoking (OR: 1.85 [95% CI: 1.17-2.94]); and increased waist-to-hip ratio (OR: 1.69 [95% CI: 1.04-2.75]) were the most important risk factors for ischemic stroke in these young cases. For intracerebral hemorrhage, only hypertension (OR: 9.08 [95% CI: 5.46-15.1]) and binge drinking (OR: 4.06 [95% CI: 1.27-13.0]) were significant risk factors. The strength of association and population attributable risk (PAR) for hypertension increased with age (PAR 23.3% in those <35 years of age, 50.7% in 35-45 years of age).

INTERPRETATION

Conventional risk factors such as hypertension, smoking, binge drinking of alcohol, central obesity, cardiac causes, dyslipidemia, and psychosocial stress are important risk factors for stroke in those younger than 45 years of age. Hypertension is the most significant risk factor in all age groups and across all regions and both stroke subtypes. These risk factors should be identified and modified in early adulthood to prevent strokes in young individuals.

Nerve transfer in the spastic equino varus foot: Anatomical feasibility study

PURPOSE

We want to evaluate the feasibility of transferring a motor branch of the anterior tibial muscle (ATM) to the extensor digitorum longus (EDL) to evaluate this procedure in patients with spastic equinovarus foot (EVF) following post-stroke hemiplegia.

METHODS

Ten cadaveric dissections from five fresh frozen human cadavers were performed to establish the anatomic feasibility of transferring a motor branch of the deep peroneal nerve, usually destinated to the ATM, to the branch of the EDL to manage spastic EVF.

RESULTS

Six cases (60%) presented three branches destinated to the ATM, one case (10%) presented give branches, and three cases (30%) had four branches. In all specimens, the coaptation between the motor branch to the ATM, referred as the "effector" branch, and the branch of the EDL "receiver" branch was feasible without tension and did not require any intraneural dissection.

CONCLUSION

This anatomical study confirms the feasibility of transferring a motor branch from the ATM to the EDL to correct a spastic EVF.

Endovascular thrombectomy in young patients with stroke

BACKGROUND

Endovascular treatment (ET) is standard of care in patients with acute ischemic stroke due to large vessel occlusion, but data on ET in young patients remain limited.

AIM

We aim to compare outcomes for young stroke patients undergoing ET in a matched cohort.

METHODS

We analyzed patients from an observational multicenter cohort with acute ischemic stroke and ET, the German Stroke Registry-Endovascular Treatment trial. Baseline characteristics, procedural parameters, and functional outcome at 90 days were compared between young (<50 years) and older (⩾50 years) patients with and without nearest-neighbor 1:1 propensity score matching.

RESULTS

Out of 6628 acute ischemic stroke patients treated with ET, 363 (5.5%) were young. Young patients differed with regard to prognostic outcome characteristics. Specifically, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) at admission was lower (median 13, interquartile range (IQR) 8-17 vs. 15, IQR 9-19, p < 0.001), and prestroke dependence was less frequent (2.9% vs. 12.2%, p < 0.001) than in older patients. Compared to a matched cohort of older patients, ET was faster (time from groin puncture to flow restoration, 35 vs. 45 min, p < 0.001) and intracranial hemorrhage was less frequent in young patients (10.0% vs. 25.9%, p < 0.001). Good functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 0-2) at 3 months was achieved more frequently in young patients (71.6% vs. 44.1%, p < 0.001), and overall mortality was lower (6.7% vs. 25.4%, p < 0.001). Among previously employed young patients (n = 177), 37.9% returned to work at 3-month follow-up, while 74.1% of the remaining patients were still undergoing rehabilitation.

CONCLUSION

Young stroke patients undergoing ET have better outcomes compared to older patients, even when matched for prestroke condition, comorbidities, and stroke severity. Hence, more liberal guidelines to perform ET for younger patients may have to be established by future studies.

Declining first-ever stroke incidence rates in 15- to 54-year-old residents of Tartu, Estonia, from 1991 to 2017

BACKGROUND

Having a stroke at a young age has a huge socioeconomic impact. Data on the trends of stroke incidence in young adults from prospective population-based studies are scarce.

AIMS

The aim of this study was to analyze the trends in stroke incidence in 15- to 54-year-old residents of Tartu, Estonia from 1991 to 2017.

METHODS

Three population-based studies with identical study protocols determining the incidence of first-ever stroke have previously been conducted in Tartu, Estonia (1991-1993, 2001-2003, and 2013-2017). All residents of Tartu with first-ever stroke (ischemic stroke, spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage, and subarachnoid hemorrhage) who were hospitalized to the Department of Neurology, Tartu University Hospital in respective study periods were included prospectively. Overlapping data sources for case ascertainment were used to include both hospitalized and non-hospitalized cases. Trends in first-ever stroke incidence in 15- to 54-year-old residents of Tartu were calculated and compared using rate ratio (RR).

RESULTS

Altogether 259 strokes were identified. From 1991 to 2017, the proportion of women increased from 38.3% to 43.6%. Mean age at onset in women decreased from 46.9 (standard deviation (SD): 7.3) to 42.6 (SD: 8.9). Overall crude incidence rates per 100,000 decreased significantly from 1991 to 2003 (from 57.2 (95% confidence interval (CI): 46.9-69.1) to 35.7 (95% CI: 25.7-48.3)); RR: 0.62 (95% CI: 0.44-0.89). While also present in women, the decrease was most notable in 45- to 54-year-old men (RR: 0.55 (95% CI: 0.30-0.99)). In 35- to 44-year-old men, the incidence rates decreased significantly from 2001 to 2017 (RR: 0.37 (95% CI: 0.14-0.99)).

CONCLUSION

The overall first-ever stroke incidence rates decreased from 1991 to 2003 and remained stable thereafter.

Return to work and depressive symptoms in young stroke survivors after six and twelve months: cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses

BACKGROUND

While depression after stroke is common and stroke prevalence globally increases in working age populations, the role of return-to-work (RTW) in the pathogenesis of post-stroke depression (PSD) remains unclear. This study examined if RTW is linked to PSD within the first year after ischemic stroke, independently from established risk factors.

METHOD

Stroke survivors (n = 176) in their working age (<65 years) recruited from two rehabilitation clinics were assessed for established risk factors: pre-stroke depression, activities of daily living, stroke severity, cognitive impairment, and social support. RTW and depressive symptoms (Geriatric Depression Scale: GDS-15) were assessed six- and twelve-months post-stroke. Multivariate regression analyses were used to assess the cross-sectional and longitudinal relationship between RTW and GDS-15, while controlling for established PSD risk factors.

RESULTS

Successful RTW was independently associated with lower GDS-15 at both measurement occasions (p < .05), next to the absence of pre-stroke depression and higher social support. Stroke severity predicted GDS-15 at twelve months. The predictive value of six-months RTW for subsequent depressive symptoms beyond the influence of established risk factors was ß = -1.73 (p = .09).

DISCUSSION

RTW was independently associated with PSD in young stroke survivors within the first-year post-stroke, and exerted a (marginally significant) effect on subsequent depression. Our study highlights the relevance of RTW for young stroke survivors' PSD, beyond the influence of established risk factors. Further assessments examining to what extent fostering RTW contributes to mental well-being after stroke might be promising for PSD prevention, next to evident beneficial economic effects.

Health behavior of young patients with ischemic stroke in Estonia: A score of five factors

BACKGROUND

Behavioral risk factors are common among young patients with stroke. This study aimed to compare the health behavior of patients and healthy controls and develop a combined risk score of health behavior.

METHODS

The health behavior of patients aged 18-54 years who suffered an ischemic stroke from 2013 to 2020 in Estonia was compared to the Health Behavior among Estonian Adult Population 2014 study sample. We chose five risk factors for comparison: smoking status, body mass index, physical exercise, diet (salt use and vegetable consumption), alcohol intake (quantity and frequency), and composed a summary score.

RESULTS

Comparing 342 patients and 1789 controls, daily smoking (49.0% vs. 22.7%), obesity (33.4% vs. 15.9%), low physical activity (< twice/week) (72.2% vs. 60.5%), excessive salt use (8.6% vs. 4.5%), and frequent alcohol use (≥ weekly) (39.9% vs. 34.0%) were more prevalent among patients. The differences in infrequent vegetable consumption (<6 days/week) and excessive alcohol consumption (7 days, >8 units/females, >16 units/males) were not significant. The observed differences were similar for age groups 18-44 years and 45-54 years. The average Health Behavior Stroke Risk Score (0-10) was 4.6 points (CI 4.4-4.8, SD ± 1.97) for patients and 3.5 points (CI 3.4-3.6, SD ± 1.90) for controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Before stroke, young patients displayed significantly worse health behavior than the general population. The largest differences were found for smoking and obesity, and a cumulation of risk factors was observed via the HBSR score.

Increased risk of incident atrial fibrillation in young adults with mental disorders: A nationwide population-based study

BACKGROUND

Mental disorders and cardiovascular diseases are closely related. However, a paucity of information on the risk of incident atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with mental disorders exists.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to assess the association between mental disorders and the risk of AF, particularly in young adults.

METHODS

Using the Korean National Health Insurance Database between 2009 and 2012, we identified adults aged 20-39 years without a history of AF and who have been diagnosed with mental disorders. Mental disorders were defined as having one of the following diagnoses: depression, insomnia, anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. The primary outcome was new-onset AF during follow-up.

RESULTS

A total of 6,576,582 subjects (mean age 30.9 ± 5.0 years; 3,919,339 [59.6%] men) were included. Among the total population, 10% had mental disorders. During the follow-up period, 8932 incident AF events occurred. Patients with mental disorders showed a higher AF incidence than did those without (25.4 per 100,000 person-years vs 17.7 per 100,000 person-years). After multivariable adjustment, mental disorders were associated with a significantly higher risk of AF (adjusted hazard ratio 1.526; 95% confidence interval 1.436-1.621). Patients with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia had a 2-fold higher risk of AF and those with depression, insomnia, and anxiety disorder had a 1.5- to 1.7-fold higher risk of AF than did those without mental disorders.

CONCLUSION

Young adults diagnosed with mental disorders have a higher risk of incident AF. Awareness for AF in high-risk populations should thus be considered.

Postpartum stroke trends, risk factors, and associated adverse outcomes

BACKGROUND

Management of postpartum stroke has been the focus of several quality improvement efforts in the past decade. However, there is little recent national trends data for postpartum stroke readmissions.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine trends, risk factors, and complications associated with postpartum stroke readmission.

STUDY DESIGN

The 2013 to 2019 Nationwide Readmissions Database was used to perform a retrospective cohort study that evaluated the risk for readmission for stroke within 60 days of delivery hospitalization discharge. Temporal trends in readmissions were analyzed using the National Cancer Institute's Joinpoint Regression Program to estimate the average annual percent change with 95% confidence intervals. Stratified trends were analyzed for hemorrhage stroke, ischemic stroke, and stroke readmissions at 1 to 10, 11 to 30, and 31 to 60 days after delivery discharge. Risk factors for stroke were analyzed using unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression models with odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals as measures of association. The risk for stroke complications, including mechanical ventilation, seizures, death, and a prolonged stay ≥14 days, was analyzed.

RESULTS

Of an estimated 21,754,603 delivery hospitalizations, 5006 were complicated by a 60-day postpartum readmission with a diagnosis of stroke. The average annual percent change for all stroke readmissions over the study period was not significant (average annual percent change, 0.1%; 95% confidence interval, -2.2% to 2.4%). When the trends in readmission for ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke were analyzed, the results were similar, as were the stratified analyses by readmission timing. Risk factors associated with increased odds included superimposed preeclampsia (odds ratio, 4.8; 95% confidence interval, 3.9-5.9), preeclampsia with severe features (odds ratio, 3.7; 95% confidence interval, 3.0-4.4), maternal cardiac disease (odds ratio, 3.0; 95% confidence interval, 2.5-3.7), chronic kidney disease (odds ratio, 5.0; 95% confidence interval, 3.4-7.5), and lupus (odds ratio, 7.0; 95% confidence interval, 4.9-10.2). Risk was retained in adjusted analyses. Common stroke-related complications included a prolonged hospital stay ≥14 days (12.1 per 1000 stroke-related readmissions), seizures (9.9 per 1000 stroke-related readmissions), and mechanical ventilation (6.6 per 1000 stroke-related readmissions).

CONCLUSION

This analysis of nationally representative data demonstrated no change in the rate of 60-day postpartum hospitalizations for stroke from 2013 to 2019. Further clinical research is indicated to optimize risk reduction for stroke after delivery hospitalization discharge.

Cumulative Alcohol Consumption Burden and the Risk of Stroke in Young Adults: A Nationwide Population-Based Study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Alcohol consumption is one of the important modifiable risk factors for stroke in young adults. The association between the cumulative burden of alcohol consumption and its impact on incident stroke in young adults is unknown. We aimed to investigate the association between cumulative alcohol burden and the risk for stroke among young adults.

METHODS

Using data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service database, patients age between 20 and 39 years, who underwent 4 consecutive annual health examinations between 2009 and 2012, were included. The cumulative alcohol burden score of moderate-to-heavy drinking was evaluated by assigning a score of 1 for alcohol consumption ≥105 g/wk at the health examination each year and calculating the sum of 4 years (0-4). The main outcome was incident stroke and its subtypes, ischemic stroke, and hemorrhagic stroke during the follow-up period.

RESULTS

Of 1 536 668 patients (mean age of 29.5 years, 71.5% male, and median follow-up of 6-year), 3 153 experienced an incident stroke (incidence rate, 0.37 per 1,000 person-years). After multivariable adjustment, patients with alcohol burden scores of 2, 3, and 4, who consumed more than 105 g/wk of alcohol for 2, 3, and 4 years, demonstrated significantly higher risks for stroke (hazard ratio [HR] 1.19, 95% CI 1.05-1.34 for 2; HR 1.22, 95% CI 1.09-1.38 for 3; HR 1.23, 95% CI 1.10-1.38 for 4) compared with those with a burden score of 0. This positive dose-response relationship was primarily driven by hemorrhagic rather than ischemic stroke. High alcohol burden scores (i.e., 2, 3, and 4) were significantly associated with higher risks for hemorrhagic stroke (HR 1.30, 95% CI 1.10-1.54 for 2; HR 1.42, 95% CI 1.21-1.67 for 3; HR 1.36, 95% CI 1.16-1.59 for 4) compared with a burden score of 0.

DISCUSSION

Young adults who engaged in moderate-to-heavy drinking demonstrated a higher risk for incident stroke, especially hemorrhagic stroke. Reducing alcohol consumption should be emphasized in young adults with heavy drinking habits as part of any stroke prevention strategy.

Psychometric properties of the 12-item Stroke-Specific Quality of Life Scale among stroke survivors in Hong Kong

The present study examined the psychometric properties of the 12-item Stroke-Specific Quality of Life Scale (SSQOL-12) in 184 stroke survivors in Hong Kong. The participants completed a self-report questionnaire including the SSQOL-12, SF-12 health survey, and validating variables at baseline and 148 stroke survivors completed SSQOL-12 two months later. Confirmatory factor analysis investigated the construct validity, reliability, and measurement invariance of SSQOL-12 across two months. Concurrent, convergent, and divergent validity was examined with respect to SF-12, hope, self-esteem, functional disability, anxiety, and depression. The original 2-factor model did not reveal a superior fit over the 1-factor model and a modified 1-factor model provided an acceptable fit to the data in both waves. The SSQOL-12 factor displayed substantial factor loadings (λ = 0.40-0.87), good internal consistency (Ω = 0.88), temporal stability (r = 0.70), and scalar measurement invariance across time. Stroke-specific quality of life was significantly associated with higher levels of SF-12, hope, and self-esteem and lower levels of functional disability, anxiety, and depression. Most correlations remained significant after controlling for demographic covariates and SF-12. The present findings offered empirical support for the validity and reliability of the unidimensional structure for SSQOL-12 as a measure of stroke-specific quality of life among stroke survivors.

Galectin-3 is associated with the functional outcome and mortality in stroke patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction

There is still a lack of sensitive predictive tools for stroke outcomes. High galectin-3 concentration is associated with an increased risk of stroke. This study investigated the relationship between blood galectin-3 levels and stroke prognosis.

Methods

The PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases were searched as of May 2021. Data from eligible studies on the relationship between galectin-3 and stroke prognosis were extracted for the meta-analysis.

Results

The outcomes included the modified Rankin Scale (mRS), mortality rate, and prognostic accuracy of galectin-3 on mRS after stroke. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% CI were used to assess the association between galectin-3 and the prognostic outcomes. Subgroup analysis based on the study design was performed to evaluate the correlation of galectin-3 with mRS and mortality. A random-effects model was adopted for this meta-analysis. A total of 5 studies involving 3607 stroke patients were included. Higher serum galectin-3 level was associated with mRS (OR [95% CI]: 2.02 [1.08, 3.77]) and mortality (OR [95% CI]: 2.17 [1.17, 4.02]) after stroke. Subgroup analysis revealed a similar relationship between galectin-3 and mRS for both prospective and retrospective studies. There were no associations between galectin-3 level and mortality rate in prospective studies. Galectin-3 had a good predictive ability on mRS after stroke (AUC: 0.88, 95% CI:0.85, 0.91).

Conclusion

Elevated blood galectin-3 levels were associated with prognostic outcomes after stroke, including functional outcome mRS and mortality rate. Moreover, galectin-3 had a good predictive ability for the prognosis of stroke.

Global Burden of Ischemic Stroke in Young Adults in 204 Countries and Territories

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

To estimate the rates of incidence, death, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of ischemic stroke in young adults aged 15-49 years and the relevant risk factors by sex, age group, and sociodemographic index (SDI) in 204 countries and territories.

METHODS

Data from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors (GBD) 2019 study were used. The estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) were calculated to evaluate the temporal trends from 1990 to 2019. We also estimated the risk factors contributing to DALYs resulting from ischemic stroke.

RESULTS

From 1990 to 2019, the global age-standardized incidence (EAPC = -0.97), death (EAPC = -0.11), and DALYs rates (EAPC = -0.55) of ischemic stroke in young adults decreased. The largest increases in age-standardized incidence, death, and DALYs rates were observed in the low and low-middle SDI quintiles. At the regional level, North Africa and the Middle East and Southeast Asia showed the largest increases in the age-standardized incidence, death, and DALYs rates of ischemic stroke. The age-standardized incidence rate was higher among young women than among young men in 2019. Globally, a high environmental temperature, high body mass index (BMI), and a high fasting plasma glucose contributed to the largest increases in age-standardized DALYs rates between 1990 and 2019. In the same period, the largest increases in the age-standardized DALYs rates in high-SDI and low-SDI regions were attributable to high environmental temperatures and alcohol use, respectively.

DISCUSSION

The burden of ischemic stroke in young adults continues to increase in low-SDI regions such as North Africa and the Middle East and Southeast Asia. There were differences in the primary risk factors related to the burden of ischemic stroke in different SDI regions. Targeted implementation of cost-effective policies and interventions is an urgent need to reduce the burden of ischemic stroke in young adults.

Dissecting the Spectrum of Stroke Risk Factors in an Apparently Healthy Population: Paving the Roadmap to Primary Stroke Prevention

We aimed to investigate, for the first time, the spectrum of stroke risk factors specific to the population of the Republic of Moldova. The subjects were examined according to a pre-established protocol of risk factor estimation. The study involved 300 subjects, including 60% women and 40% men, with a mean age of 49.9 ± 14.5 years. The most common risk factor was abdominal obesity, identified in 75% of subjects; general obesity was detected in 48%, while 32% of subjects were overweight and 20% were normally weighted. Hypertension was observed in 44%; 8% of those examined had atrial fibrillation, and 9% had diabetes mellitus. Left myocardial hypertrophy on ECG was present in 53% of subjects, and acute ischemic changes in 2%. Laboratory observations detected that glycosylated hemoglobin increased by 7%, and >50% had dyslipidemia. Total cholesterol was significantly elevated by 58%, LDL-cholesterol was increased by 32%, and HDL-cholesterol was decreased by 9%. Homocysteine was increased in 55% and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein in 28% of subjects. These results indicate the presence of modifiable risk factors and the necessity to elaborate on the primary prevention strategies aimed at minimizing the burden of stroke in the population of the Republic of Moldova.

Factors affecting the quality of life after ischemic stroke in young adults: a scoping review

PURPOSE

To synthesize the body of knowledge on the factors influencing the quality of life (QoL) after ischemic stroke (IS) in young adults.

METHODS

Guidelines regarding the scoping review methodology developed by the Joanna Briggs Institute, and the PRISMA-ScR checklist for a scoping review was used in this paper. A total of 1197 studies were identified through a bibliographic search in Web of Science, MEDLINE, PsycInfo, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and ProQuest Science Database. Articles published between the years 2000-2021 were included.

RESULTS

A total of nine papers were finally selected to respond to the research question. Three studies were prospective longitudinal studies compared QoL between young stroke and age-matched controls from the general population. Across all the analysed studies, 14 variables potentially associated with QoL were identified. QoL in young patients is mainly affected by clinical outcomes after IS (scored by the modified Rankin scale and the Barthel index-favourable initial functional status and higher independence in ADL leads to higher QoL) and psychological factors (post-stroke fatigue and depression-higher levels of fatigue and depression lead to lower QoL). The reviewed studies emphasized the importance of functional outcomes, post-stroke depression, fatigue and anxiety and early return to work.

CONCLUSION

Further longitudinal studies are needed to identify the trajectory of post-stroke psychosocial symptoms over time and other potential predictors of unfavourable long-term QoL, thus specific young stroke rehabilitation and stroke self-management support programmes should be developed (address physical, psychological factors which influence the psychosocial adaptation post-stroke and the perception of the QoL).

The reasons for not returning to work and health-related quality of life among young and middle-aged patients with stroke: A cross-sectional study

Objectives

This study aimed to explore the reasons and influencing factors for non-return to work (non-RTW) within 1 year among young and middle-aged patients with stroke and to assess their health-related quality of life (HRQoL) at 1 year across different reasons.

Methods

The study was conducted as a telephone-based cross-sectional survey. Seven hundred eighty-nine young and middle-aged patients with stroke aged between 18 and 54 years for men and 18 and 49 years for women in the electronic medical system were included. Data collection included demographic characteristics, socioeconomic status, behavioral habits, history of chronic diseases, work status, reasons for non-RTW, and HRQoL.

Results

Of 789 patients, 435 (55.1%) (mean [SD] age, 47.7 [7.8] years) did not return to work within 1 year after stroke. Among the patients who did not RTW, 58.9% were unable to work, 9.7% retired early, 11.03% became full-time homemakers or were unemployed, and 20.5% were reluctant to work. The disordered multiclass logistic regression model showed that the factors influencing the reasons for non-RTW included age, gender, education, income, health insurance, diabetes comorbidity, ability to perform activities of daily living, and mobility of the right upper extremity. Furthermore, patients who were unable to work had significantly lower HRQoL compared to those who had RTW, followed by those who retired early.

Conclusions

More than half did not RTW within 1 year in our study. The results will help inform future research to identify interventions to promote RTW and improve HRQoL for young and middle-aged patients with stroke.

The association of noise exposure with stroke incidence and mortality: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of cohort studies

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Noise exposure is a major public health challenge with important implications for cardiovascular health. However, the association between noise exposure and stroke risk remains controversial. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the role of noise exposure on stroke incidence and mortality by conducting a dose-response meta-analysis of cohort studies.

METHODS

The relevant publications were retrieved via PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus up to June 26, 2022. The potential linear and curve relationship between noise and stroke were fitted using the generalized least squares method and restricted cubic spline. We estimated the pooled relative risk (RR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) by random-effect models. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach was used to evaluate the strength of the results.

RESULTS

In total, 21 cohort studies with 16,075,204 participants and 311,878 cases were included in the analysis. The risk of stroke incidence increased up to 4% (95% CI:1.02-1.06) and stroke mortality increased up to 3% (95% CI:1.00-1.07), every 10 dB(A) increment in noise exposure. Moreover, each 10 dB(A) increment in noise exposure was associated with a 4% (95% CI:1.01-1.07) increase in ischemic stroke and a 2% (95% CI:1.00-1.04) increase in hemorrhagic stroke. According to GRADE criteria, the evidence level in this study was rated as moderate.

CONCLUSIONS

The current findings provide further evidence of a dose-response relationship between exposure to noise and the risk of stroke incidence and mortality. Additionally, we update and fill a knowledge gap that the statistically significant increase in stroke incidence when noise decibels are >65 dB(A).

Periodontitis is a potential risk factor for transient ischemic attack and minor ischemic stroke in young adults: A nationwide population-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

This study aims to determine whether periodontitis is a risk factor for transient ischemic attack (TIA) in young adults.

METHODS

The National Health Insurance (NHI) Research Database in Taiwan was the source of the data used in this retrospective cohort study. Individuals aged 20 to 53 years with periodontitis in 2001 and 2002 (n = 792,426) and an age- and sex-matched control group (n = 792,426) were selected. All participants were followed up until TIA diagnosis, 55 years of age, removal from the NHI program, death, or December 31, 2016. The incidence density and hazard ratio (HR) of new-onset TIA were compared between individuals with periodontitis and controls. Periodontitis was defined by dentists according to the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) codes 523.3-5 with concurrent antibiotic prescription or periodontal treatment excluding scaling performed by certified dentists. TIA was defined according to the ICD-9-CM code 435.x at hospital discharge.

RESULTS

After adjustment for confounding factors, the risk of developing TIA/minor ischemic stroke was calculated to be higher in participants with periodontitis (HR, 1.24; 95% confidence interval, 1.15-1.32; P <0.001) than in those without. The HR was slightly higher among people aged 20 to 40 years than among those aged 40 to 53 years.

CONCLUSION

Periodontitis is associated with an increased risk of developing TIA/minor ischemic stroke. Periodontitis might be a modifiable risk factor for stroke in young adults. Clinicians must devote greater attention to this potential association to develop new preventive and therapeutic strategies for stroke in young adults.

Memory decline in young stroke survivors during a 9-year follow-up: A cohort study

Introduction

A decade after stroke, young stroke survivors continue to suffer from cognitive impairment. However, it is not known whether this long-term cognitive outcome is caused in part by further cognitive decline or solely by incomplete recovery from the acute effects of ischemic stroke. We studied changes in three cognitive domains over a 9-year follow-up period after first-ever and only ischemic stroke.

Patients and methods

In this prospective, two-center cohort study, we recruited consecutive 18-65 year-old patients with acute stroke between 2007 and 2009, along with demographically matched stroke-free controls. We performed comprehensive neuropsychological assessments at 3 months, 2, and 9 years after stroke, and we also performed neurological examinations at the time of inclusion and at the 9-year follow-up. We assessed the associations among stroke, follow-up time and long-term cognitive outcomes using repeated-measures analysis of variance.

Results

The subjects comprised 85 patients who had had their first-ever and only ischemic stroke (mean age 53 years at inclusion), along with 31 stroke-free demographic controls. We compared the cognitive changes in patients to those in controls over a 9-year follow-up. After initial recovery between 3 months and 2 years after stroke, patients showed a decline in memory between 2 and 9 years after stroke compared to controls within the same time interval (immediate recall p < 0.001; delayed recall p < 0.001; list learning p < 0.001). Other than memory, we found no difference in cognitive changes between poststroke patients and controls.

Discussion

Our main finding was memory decline over a decade in young first-ever stroke patients with no further stroke or neurodegenerative disease. Our study extends the previous results of further memory decline in elderly stroke survivors to young stroke survivors.

Conclusion

Young stroke survivors might be at risk of memory decline over the decade following the stroke.

Association between the C-reactive protein to albumin ratio and adverse clinical prognosis in patients with young stroke

BACKGROUND

The inflammatory response plays an important role in ischemic stroke, and the incidence of stroke in young adults has increased rapidly in recent years. The C-reactive protein-to-albumin ratio (CAR) is a new index that reflects the overall inflammatory status of patients with major diseases; however, no studies have reported the relationship between CAR and young stroke.

METHODS

The participants' baseline characteristics and laboratory examination results, including CAR, were obtained at admission. The modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores at the 30-day and 90-day follow-ups were obtained from all patients. All the participants included in the study were classified into four groups according to CAR quartiles (Q1-Q4). Logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between different CAR levels and adverse outcomes (mRS 3-6 and mRS 2-6). We also plotted receiver operating characteristic curves of CAR for adverse clinical outcomes and calculated the area under the curve and cutoff values.

RESULTS

A total of 630 patients with young stroke were enrolled in the study. In the multivariate logistic regression model, at the 30-day follow-up, the Q3 and Q4 (significantly increased CAR) groups showed an elevated risk of mRS score of 2-6 (odds ratio [OR]: 2.94; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.40-6.16, p < 0.01; OR: 4.01; 95% CI: 1.88-8.91, p < 0.01). At the 90-day follow-up, the Q3 and Q4 groups still showed an elevated risk of an mRS score of 2-6 (Q3, OR: 2.76; 95% CI: 1.30-5.86, p < 0.01; Q4, OR: 2.63; 95% CI: 1.22-5.65, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

A significantly increased CAR was independently associated with an increased risk of adverse outcomes in young patients with stroke.

Evaluation methods to assess the efficacy of equinovarus foot surgery on the gait of post-stroke hemiplegic patients: A literature review

Introduction

The aim of this study was to realize a systematic review of the different ways, both clinical and instrumental, used to evaluate the effects of the surgical correction of an equinovarus foot (EVF) deformity in post-stroke patients.

Methods

A systematic search of full-length articles published from 1965 to June 2021 was performed in PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane, and CIRRIE. The identified studies were analyzed to determine and to evaluate the outcomes, the clinical criteria, and the ways used to analyze the impact of surgery on gait pattern, instrumental, or not.

Results

A total of 33 studies were included. The lack of methodological quality of the studies and their heterogeneity did not allow for a valid meta-analysis. In all, 17 of the 33 studies involved exclusively stroke patients. Ten of the 33 studies (30%) evaluated only neurotomies, one study (3%) evaluated only tendon lengthening procedures, 19 studies (58%) evaluated tendon transfer procedures, and only two studies (6%) evaluated the combination of tendon and neurological procedures. Instrumental gait analysis was performed in only 11 studies (33%), and only six studies (18%) combined it with clinical and functional analyses. Clinical results show that surgical procedures are safe and effective. A wide variety of different scales have been used, most of which have already been validated in other indications.

Discussion

Neuro-orthopedic surgery for post-stroke EVF is becoming better defined. However, the method of outcome assessment is not yet well established. The complexity in the evaluation of the gait of patients with EVF, and therefore the analysis of the effectiveness of the surgical management performed, requires the integration of a patient-centered functional dimension, and a reliable and reproducible quantified gait analysis, which is routinely usable clinically if possible.