FREQUENCY OF RISK FACTORS IN STROKE PATIENTS ADMITTED TO DHQ TEACHING HOSPITAL D.I. KHAN

Background: There are a number of risk factors for stroke. The aim of this study was to explore modifiable risk factors in patients admitted to medical unit, DHQ Teaching D.I. Khan. Methodology: This descriptive study was conducted on 50 patients with stroke, admitted to medical unit DHQ Teaching Hospital D.I. Khan from October 2006 to July 2007. A simplified clinical approach was adapted by evaluating each patient. All the findings were recorded in printed proforma. Patients with focal neurological deficit for more than 24 hours presenting within 7 days of onset, irrespective of age and demographic profile were included in the study. Those with tubercular meningitis, brain tumor, viral or bacterial encephalitis, trauma, or multiple sclerosis were excluded. Results: Out of 50 patients, 38(76%) were males and 12(24%) females with male to female ratio 3:1. Mean age was 63.42 years. Cerebral infarction was found in 32(64%) patients while 18(36%) had intracerebral hemorrhage on CT scan. The important risk factors were hypertension (60%), diabetes mellitus (20%), hyperlipidemia (18%), cigarette smoking (16%) and cardiovascular disease (16%). Conclusion: Hypertension is the most common modifiable risk factor for stroke especially in cerebral hemorrhage. Diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia and smoking are other important risk factor. Most of the major risk factors for stroke are modifiable and need awareness, regular use of medication and changes in life style for prevention. The national stroke prevention program should initiate and coordinate public awareness campaigns and develop guidelines to reduce the incidence, morbidity and mortality of stroke in Pakistan.