Abstract
BackgroundStroke is one of the leading causes of disability, long-term morbidity, and mortality. The key modifiable risk factors for stroke are largely driven by demographic changes and various social adaptations. Smokeless tobacco consumption is high in developing countries with less awareness of its potential health risks.AimThis study was designed to determine the prevalence of usage of smokeless tobacco in patients presenting with stroke in a tertiary care hospital in Karachi.MethodsThis is a cross-sectional study conducted at the Department of Neurology of Dr. Ruth K. M. Pfau Civil Hospital in Karachi. A total of 192 patients were enrolled during the study period of six months, from September 2018 to March 2019. All consenting patients were recruited who presented with stroke and fulfilled the inclusion criteria. All patients were assessed by a trained neurologist.ResultsA total of 192 patients with stroke were included. There were 146 (76%) males and 46 (24%) females with a mean age of 53 ± 6.1 years. The highest percentage (39%) of cases was illiterate. A majority (64%) of patients presented belonged to a lower socioeconomic background. Out of 192 stroke patients, 131 (68.2%) consumed smokeless tobacco. ConclusionThe frequency of smokeless tobacco consumption was found to be high in stroke patients who require the attention of the physician on modifiable risk factors.
Highlights
In recent years, the usage of smokeless tobacco has soared in developing countries [1]
The key modifiable risk factors for stroke are largely driven by demographic changes and various social adaptations
Smokeless tobacco consumption is high in developing countries with less awareness of its potential health risks
Summary
The usage of smokeless tobacco has soared in developing countries [1]. Smokeless tobacco use is most popular in certain geographical locations, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, South Asia, and in certain parts of Africa [2]. In a study conducted in Sweden, where snuff consumption is widespread, current snuff users had a higher risk of fatal ischemic stroke than non-users [5]. Ruchika Gupta et al carried out a systematic review to examine the relationship between smokeless tobacco and cardiovascular disease and found inadequate evidence to establish the link [6]. A systematic review with meta-analysis was done in 2009 by Paola et al concluded that there is an increased risk of fatal myocardial infarction and stroke among users of smokeless tobacco compared to non-users [7]. Smokeless tobacco consumption is high in developing countries with less awareness of its potential health risks
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call