Frequency of Stroke and Distribution of Its Subtypes in Nineveh, Iraq, Related to Risk Factors

Abstract

Abstract Background: The second leading cause of death worldwide is stroke, which is also a major global cause of disability. It can be of either type: infarction (ischemic) or bleeding (hemorrhagic). A variety of risk factors related to stroke may be grouped into changeable and unchangeable factors. Objectives: The study was designed to categorize the occurrence, types, and risk factors of stroke in Nineveh, Iraq. Materials and Methods: It is a descriptive study carried out in hospitals in Nineveh, which examines the recent frequency of stroke in the province of Nineveh from November 2020 to April 2021. Chi‑square (χ2) test of proportion and multiple logistic regression analysis were conducted to determine the association and relationship of risk factors to the cases studied. Results: During the period of the study, 137 patients were included, of which 120 (88%) were ischemic strokes. Ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke occur most frequently in the 25–64 years age group. Hypertension was a major risk factor for stroke (89%). Women were less likely to have a stroke compared with men. High blood pressure, hyperlipidemia, and uncontrolled high blood sugar were associated with an increase in stroke frequency, and the relationship between stroke risk and these factors was significant (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The study found that ischemic stroke is the most common cause; stroke frequency increases with age and peaks among the 25- to 65-year-old age groups.