ISCHEMIC STROKE

FREQUENCY OF HYPERTENSION, DIABETES AND SMOKING IN PATIENTS

Abstract

Stroke is characterized by the sudden loss of blood circulation to an area
of the brain, resulting in a corresponding loss of neurologic function. It is also called as
cereberovascular accident (CVA) or stroke syndrome. Objectives: To determine frequency
of hypertension, diabetes mellitus and smoking in patients with ischemic stroke. Patients
and methods: This cross sectional study of six months was carried out in the department of
medicine, Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences. Patients aged 20-70 years of age
with ischemic stroke on CT were enrolled in the study after taking consent from caretaker of
patients. Detailed history focusing on hypertension, diabetes and smoking and their duration
was taken. Blood pressure was recorded and fundoscopy was done to find out diabetic or
hypertensive retinopathy. Thorough neurological examination was done and blood sugar
(fasting and random) was evaluated. Data was entered and analyzed using SPSS version 16.
Results: A total of 100 patients were included in the study during study period. 64% of patients
were in ≥ 50 years of age group with mean age of 52±11 years. A total of 66 (66%) were male;
with male to female ratio was 2:1. Hypertension was present in 61% of cases, Diabetes was
found in 32% cases and 40 patients were cigarette smokers. Conclusions: It was concluded
that high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus and smoking are associated with ischemic stroke.