Saudi Journal of Medicine (SJM)
Volume-6 | Issue-09 | 283-294
Original Research Article
Stroke; A Major Cause of Cardiovascular Mortality- A Review
Ezennaka RC, Dodiyi-Manuel ST
Published : Sept. 25, 2021
Abstract
Background: The term stroke or cerebro-vascular accident refers to a syndrome of rapidly developing clinical signs of focal (or global) disturbance of cerebral function, with symptoms lasting 24 hours or longer or resulting in death with no apparent cause other than of vascular origin. Stroke can be classified into two broad types: Ischemic and Hemorrhagic. There are multiple risk factors for stroke but systemic hypertension (HBP) is the most common yet modifiable risk factor for stroke [9]. Cardioembolic stroke is a heterogenous entity and a variety of cardiac conditions can predispose to cerebral embolism. Methodology: Literature search was done using google search, hinari research, PubMed and books from the author’s collection. Results: The GBD study for the years 2002-2030 has estimated that there were 16 million first-ever strokes and 5.7 million deaths in 2005. The prevalence of stroke in subjects with HBP has been reported by various authors worldwide to range from 19.5% in Canada to 29% in USA and 30% in England. Cardiac diseases have been shown to increase risk of stroke. Atrial fibrillation is the most powerful and treatable cardiac precursor of stroke. The cardiovascular risk factors from the current National Cholesterol Education Project Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP ATP III) include the non- modifiable, modifiable and emerging risk factors.