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Rates and predictors of stroke-associated case fatality in black Central African patients

B Longo-Mbenza1, M Lelo Tshinkwela, J Mbuilu Pukuta

  • 1Department of Cardiology and Pathophysiology, Division of Cardiology, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo.

Cardiovascular Journal of Africa
|June 3, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Acute stroke is a deadly condition in Kinshasa, with ischaemic stroke, high haematocrit, and fibrinogen predicting mortality. Primary prevention of stroke is crucial in Africa.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Public Health
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Stroke represents a significant global health burden, particularly in low-resource settings.
  • Understanding stroke case fatality rates and predictors is essential for developing targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the case fatality rates of stroke in a private clinic in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo.
  • To identify predictors associated with stroke mortality in this population.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective study of 212 Black African patients admitted with CT scan-proven stroke.
  • Analysis included demographic, clinical, and laboratory variables to assess mortality risk factors.

Main Results:

  • The overall stroke case fatality rate was 44%, with ischaemic stroke having a 31% mortality rate.
  • Older age, higher leukocyte count, haematocrit, haemoglobin, and fibrinogen levels were associated with increased mortality.
  • Ischaemic stroke, higher fibrinogen, and higher glucose levels were significant predictors of mortality.

Conclusions:

  • Stroke remains a critical cause of death, with ischaemic stroke, elevated haematocrit, and fibrinogen levels being significant mortality predictors.
  • Hyperfibrinogenemia and hyperglycemia are key predictors of case fatality in ischaemic stroke patients.
  • Prioritizing primary stroke prevention in Africa is essential for resource allocation.
Abstract

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