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Updated: May 11, 2026

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Determining the Functional Status of the Corticospinal Tract Within One Week of Stroke
Published on: February 22, 2020
Predictors of functional dependency after stroke in Nigeria
Akin Ojagbemi1, Mayowa Owolabi
1Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.
Summary
Major depressive disorder, female sex, and cognitive dysfunction significantly increase functional dependency after stroke in Nigerian survivors. Addressing depression and cognitive issues may improve recovery and independence post-stroke.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Public Health
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Factors influencing post-stroke functional dependency are under-explored in sub-Saharan Africa.
- This study investigated risk factors for functional dependency among Nigerian stroke survivors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify demographic and clinical factors associated with functional dependency in Nigerian stroke survivors.
- To determine predictors of functional dependency to inform targeted interventions.
Main Methods:
- 128 stroke survivors in southwestern Nigeria were assessed using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS).
- Data collected included demographics, clinical characteristics, cognitive function, and major depressive disorder.
- Logistic regression analysis identified independent predictors of functional dependency.
Main Results:
- 60.9% of survivors were functionally dependent (mRS ≥3).
- Female sex, global cognitive dysfunction, and major depressive disorder were associated with dependency.
- Major depressive disorder independently predicted functional dependency (OR 6.89).
Conclusions:
- Depression, female sex, and cognitive dysfunction are strongly linked to poorer functional outcomes post-stroke.
- Interventions targeting depression and cognitive dysfunction could enhance functional independence in stroke survivors.

