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Document Type

Original Article

Abstract

Background and Objective

Stroke is a significant global health challenge, particularly burdening low- and middle-income countries where it leads to substantial mortality and disability-adjusted life years. The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of stroke and its subtypes among adults in Pakistan's Punjab region.

Methods

This retrospective hospital-based study was conducted at Lahore General Hospital in Punjab, Pakistan, serving as the primary referral center for stroke cases. Medical records from January 2019 to December 2020 were reviewed using the International Classification of Diseases. A structured data collection form captured demographics, stroke types, risk factors, medical histories, and outcomes. Data was analyzed using SPSS 26.0.

Results

Among 159,824 emergency department visits, 1654 patients were diagnosed with stroke, yielding an incidence rate of 1.03% in Punjab. The majority (26.13%) of stroke patients were aged 60-69 years, with an average age of 57.19 years. Males (51.75%) showed higher susceptibility than females (48.25%). A significant proportion (62.39%) of cases resulted in discharge with disability. Ischemic stroke was predominant (44.2%), followed closely by hemorrhagic stroke (43.4%). Hypertension (61.63%), diabetes (17.65%), and heart disease (8.73%) emerged as prevalent comorbidities. Lahore was the primary location for a substantial number of cases (46.3%).

Conclusion

The high incidence of stroke (1.03%) in Punjab underscores urgent public health needs. Our study highlights prevalent risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and ischemic heart disease, emphasizing the necessity for targeted prevention strategies. Comprehensive epidemiological studies are crucial to accurately quantify stroke burden in Pakistan and implement effective interventions.

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