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Updated: Jun 30, 2026
06:01
A Thrombotic Stroke Model Based On Transient Cerebral Hypoxia-ischemia
Published on: August 18, 2015
Vascular risk factors in cocaine users with stroke
S Sen1, S L Silliman, L E Braitman
1Department of Neurology, Temple University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
Summary
Chronic hypertension and older age increase ischemic stroke risk in cocaine users. Female sex and older age increase hemorrhagic stroke risk in cocaine users.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Cardiology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Cocaine use is associated with various cardiovascular events, including stroke.
- Traditional stroke risk factors are well-established, but their role in cocaine-induced stroke requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether classic stroke risk factors are also significant risk factors for cocaine-related ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke.
- To identify specific risk factors that may exacerbate stroke risk in individuals using cocaine.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 100 patients with cocaine-related stroke (ischemic or hemorrhagic) admitted between 1986 and 1995.
- Comparison of stroke patients with a control group of 109 cocaine users without a history of stroke.
- Logistic regression analysis to determine independent risk factors for cocaine-induced stroke.
Main Results:
- Older age was a significant risk factor for both ischemic (OR 1.08/year) and hemorrhagic stroke (OR 1.1/year) in cocaine users.
- Chronic hypertension was an independent risk factor for ischemic stroke (OR 5.2).
- Female sex was an independent risk factor for hemorrhagic stroke (OR 3.2).
Conclusions:
- Chronic hypertension and older age may amplify the risk of cocaine-related ischemic stroke.
- Female sex and older age may increase the risk of cocaine-related hemorrhagic stroke.
- These findings highlight the importance of considering traditional risk factors in the context of cocaine use.
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