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A Magnetic Resonance Imaging-based Computational Protocol for Analysis of Plaque Morphology and Hemodynamics in Patients with Carotid Artery Stenosis
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Published on: August 12, 2025

Risk factors of carotid stenosis in first-ever ischemic stroke in Taiwan: a hospital-based study

Chien-Hung Chang1, Yeu-Jhy Chang, Tsong-Hai Lee

  • 1Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung University School of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan.

Acta Neurologica Taiwanica
|January 12, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Age and smoking are key risk factors for extracranial carotid atherosclerosis in patients experiencing their first ischemic stroke. Identifying these factors aids in stroke prevention strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Vascular Medicine
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Extracranial carotid atherosclerosis is a significant contributor to ischemic stroke.
  • Understanding its risk factors is crucial for effective primary prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify independent risk factors for extracranial carotid atherosclerosis in patients with first-ever ischemic stroke.
  • To inform primary prevention strategies for ischemic stroke in Taiwan.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 541 patients with first-ever ischemic stroke was analyzed.
  • Clinical and laboratory data were assessed for relevance to carotid atherosclerosis.
  • B-mode ultrasonography was used to diagnose the degree of carotid stenosis.

Main Results:

  • The study included 325 men and 216 women.
  • 20% of patients had a carotid stenosis of 50% or greater.
  • Advanced age (OR=2.15) and smoking (OR=1.52) were significantly associated with severe carotid stenosis (> or = 50%).

Conclusions:

  • Age and smoking are identified as independent risk factors for carotid atherosclerosis.
  • These findings enhance understanding for the primary prevention of ischemic stroke.
  • The results have implications for public health initiatives in Taiwan.
Abstract

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