Epidemiology and Risk Factors of Stroke in Tabriz, Iran: A Population Based Study

Abstract

Objective: Cerebral vascular events are the second leading cause of mortality worldwide and is increasing in developing countries. Epidemiological studies are important to improve outcomes and preventive and supportive strategies. This research was aimed to study epidemiology of stroke in Tabriz, Iran. Materials and Methods :This cross-sectional, analytic population-based study was performed from May 2009 to April 2010. Information about probable stroke events was obtained from 5000 randomly selected people. In a door-to-door process, questionnaires were completed by a trained team. Any probable stroke case was referred to a stroke expert for further evaluation. After diagnosing stroke cases, 214 healthy people were assembled for a control group to compare stroke related risk factors. Results :Out of 5000 studied people, 34(0.68%) stroke patients, with a mean age of 68.7 years (range: 38-85), were detected. Nineteen (56%) patients were male, 31 (91%) were ischemic, and 3 (9%) had hemorrhagic stroke. Six first-ever strokes occurred in the 1 year study period. Identified risk factors included hypertension in 25 (74%), hyperlipidemia in 11 (32%), diabetes mellitus in 9 (27%), smoking in 10 (29%) and coronary artery disease in 6 (18%). Conclusion : This report showed a high incidence rate of stroke of about 120 per 100,000 people and a remarkably high prevalence of hypertension. It speaks to the need to make special health system strategies to raise awareness for primary and secondary prevention of stroke.