Quality of life and mental health in young strokes

Stroke has a significant impact on mental health and health-related quality of life (HRQoL); these aspects have not been sufficiently studied in young stroke.

To evaluate HRQoL, mental health, and the relationship between these variables and the incorporation of young adults into working life after stroke.

We conducted a prospective descriptive study of patients with JS between 2016 and 2017, using such questionnaires and scales as EuroQol-5D, the 36-item Short Form Health Survey, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), modified Rankin Scale (mRS), 12-item General Health Questionnaire, Hamilton Anxiety and Depression Rating Scales, and BURQOL-meter; tests were administered at 2 interviews, held 6 and 12 months after stroke.

We analysed 41 patients, with a mean age of 41.8 years. At one year, the mean NIHSS score was 0.54 and mRS score was 0-2 in 95.1%. No differences were observed over time in quality of life or mental health scales. Prevalence rates for depression and anxiety at one year were 46.3% and 41.5%, respectively. Male sex and active employment were associated with better HRQoL. A total of 41.5% of patients were in work at one year after the stroke. Statistically significant associations were observed between quality of life, mental health, and incorporation into working life.

Young stroke affects HRQoL, and patients are at high risk of anxiety and depression, underdiagnosed and undertreated disorders that affect quality of life and the return to work, which decreases after stroke in young adults.