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Stroke subtypes and factors associated with ischemic stroke in Kinshasa, Central Africa
Michel Lelo Tshikwela1, Fifi Baza Londa1, Stéphane Yanda Tongo1
1Department of Radiology, Kinshasa University Hospital, Radiology.
Insights
Lacunar infarct is more common than non-lacunar infarct in Central African Bantu populations. Understanding these stroke patterns is key for improving disease prevention and management strategies.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Ischemic stroke is a leading cause of death and disability globally.
- Effective prevention strategies require a thorough understanding of associated risk factors.
- This study focuses on ischemic stroke in Central Africa.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review patient records of ischemic stroke cases in Central Africa.
- To identify computed tomography (CT) stroke subtypes and associated factors.
- To investigate potential tropical seasonal variations in stroke prevalence.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of patients of Bantu ethnicity with clinical stroke diagnosis and CT confirmation.
- Data collected from January 2011 to December 2012.
- Analysis of CT stroke subtypes, associated factors, and seasonal trends.
Main Results:
- 303 first-ever stroke patients included; average age 53 (range 3-84), 62% male.
- Prevalence of CT stroke subtypes: 63% lacunar infarct, 37% non-lacunar infarct.
- Associated factors included age ≥60 (55%), male gender (63%), hypertension (54%), and type 2 diabetes (11%).
- Higher prevalence observed during warmer seasons (p < 0.05).
Conclusions:
- Lacunar infarct is more prevalent than non-lacunar infarct in the Bantu population of Central Africa.
- Key risk factors identified include advanced age, male gender, hypertension, and diabetes.
- Seasonal variations in stroke occurrence warrant further investigation.
Background And Purpose:
Ischemic stroke causes death and disability worldwide. Better understanding and controlling factors associated will improve the prevention of the disease. This study reviews records of patients with ischemic stroke in Central Africa.
Material And Methods:
Patients of Bantu ethnicity with clinical diagnosis of stroke and lesion on computed tomography scan from January 2011 to December 2012 were selected. Computed tomographic subtypes of ischemic stroke and factors associated were considered with tropical seasonal variation.
Results:
Of the 303 first-ever stroke patients (average age 53 years old, range 3- 84 years old; 62% male) were included in the study. The prevalence of computed tomography stroke subtypes was: lacunar infarct (63%) and non lacunar infarct lesion (37%). Silent brain infarct was seen in 9 % of patients. Prevalence of factors associated with ischemic stroke was: age≥60 years old (55%); male gender (63%), chronic and uncontrolled hypertension (54%) and type 2 Diabetes mellitus (11%). A seasonal high prevalence was observed in warmer season (p < 0.05).
Conclusions:
This study shows a high prevalence of lacunar infarct than non lacunar in Bantu of Central Africa.