Risk factors for stroke : relative risk in young and elderly.

Abstract

Stroke is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. A significant proportion of stroke victims in India are below the age of 40 years and may have specific risk factors. 101 patients (42 less than 40 years of age) of ischaemic stroke were studiedat NIMHANS to estimate the relative risk of various contributing factors. Hypercholesterolaemia, hyperglycaemia and hypertension were more common in elderly group, while smoking, alcohol and tobacco abuse were more prevalent in younger age group (relative risk 1.2, 1.9 and 1.5 respectively). A better understanding of these risk factors may play a key role in the prevention of stroke in young.