Abstract
A year ago the World Stroke Organisation (WSO) highlighted the enormous global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on stroke care. In this review, we consider a year later where we are now, what the future holds, and what the long-term effects of the pandemic will be on stroke. Stroke occurs in about 1.4% of patients hospitalized with COVID-19 infection, who show an excess of large vessel occlusion and increased mortality. Despite this association, stroke presentations fell dramatically during the pandemic, although emerging data suggest that total stroke mortality may have risen with increased stroke deaths at home and in care homes. Strategies and guidelines have been developed to adapt stroke services worldwide, and protect healthcare workers. Adaptations include increasing use of telemedicine for all aspects of stroke care. The pandemic is exacerbating already marked global inequalities in stroke incidence and mortality. Lastly, the pandemic has had a major impact on stroke research and funding, although it has also emphasized the importance of large scale collaborative research initiatives.
Highlights
Leading OpinionCOVID-19 and stroke—Understanding the relationship and adapting services
Received: 1 February 2021; accepted: 1 February 2021. It is a year since the World Stroke Organisation (WSO) highlighted the enormous global impact of the COVID19 pandemic on stroke care
Was there the worrying concern that COVID-19 infection itself may increase stroke risk, but a WSO survey highlighted the impact of the pandemic on stroke care with delayed presentation and reduced hospital admission, and less availability of specialized stroke services due to diversion of resources to the care of COVID-19 patients.[1]
Summary
COVID-19 and stroke—Understanding the relationship and adapting services. International Journal of Stroke 2021, Vol 16(3) 241–247 !
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