Domain-Specific Physical Activity and Stroke in Sweden

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Public Health
• Cardiovascular Research

Background:

• Associations between specific physical activity domains and stroke incidence/outcomes require further investigation using long-term population data.
• Understanding these associations is crucial for developing targeted public health interventions to reduce stroke burden.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the relationship between different types of physical activity (leisure, work, transport, household) and the risk of stroke.
• To investigate the association of these physical activity domains with post-stroke outcomes, specifically death or dependency in activities of daily living (ADL).

Main Methods:

• Prospective, population-based cohort study (INTERGENE) in western Sweden with a median follow-up of 20 years.
• Physical activity levels were self-reported across four domains; pedometer data collected in a subgroup.
• Stroke incidence and composite outcomes (death or ADL dependency at 3 months) were tracked.

Main Results:

• Intermediate and high leisure time physical activity levels were linked to reduced stroke incidence (aHRs 0.54 and 0.47).
• Intermediate transport-related physical activity also showed a reduced stroke incidence (aHR 0.69).
• High leisure time physical activity was associated with lower post-stroke death or ADL dependency (aOR 0.34). Work and household activity showed no significant associations.

Conclusions:

• Leisure time and transport-related physical activities are associated with a decreased risk of stroke.
• High levels of leisure time physical activity are linked to better outcomes after stroke, including reduced mortality and dependency.