According to a new study, stroke patients are twice as likely to die compared to non-stroke patients. The study, published in the journal Neurology, analyzed data from over 31,000 patients who were admitted to a Canadian hospital between 2003 and 2013.
Risk Factors for Stroke
Stroke is a leading cause of disability and death worldwide. Some of the risk factors for stroke include:.
- High blood pressure
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- High cholesterol levels
- Family history of stroke
The Study
The study found that stroke patients were more likely to be older, female, have higher rates of diabetes, and have a longer length of hospital stay compared to non-stroke patients.
In addition, stroke patients were more likely to have other medical conditions such as heart disease, kidney disease, and dementia.
The study also found that stroke patients had a higher risk of mortality compared to non-stroke patients. In-hospital mortality was 8.5% for stroke patients compared to 4.1% for non-stroke patients.
After adjusting for other medical conditions and risk factors, stroke patients were still twice as likely to die compared to non-stroke patients.
Preventing Stroke and Improving Outcomes
Preventing stroke is important to reduce the risk of mortality and disability. Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising regularly can reduce the risk of stroke.
Managing other medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol levels can also reduce the risk of stroke.
If you suspect that you or someone you know is having a stroke, it is important to seek emergency medical attention immediately. Early treatment can improve outcomes and reduce the risk of disability and death.
Conclusion
Stroke patients are twice as likely to die compared to non-stroke patients. Risk factors for stroke include high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol levels, and family history of stroke.
Preventing stroke and improving outcomes requires lifestyle changes and managing other medical conditions. Early treatment is important for improving outcomes and reducing the risk of disability and death.