A longitudinal study on the development trajectory of post-stroke cognition: based on group-based trajectory model.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Cognitive Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability, often resulting in cognitive impairment.
• Understanding the heterogeneity of cognitive recovery post-stroke is crucial for effective patient management.
• Previous studies have not fully elucidated the dynamic trajectories of cognitive changes after stroke.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify distinct developmental trajectories of post-stroke cognition.
• To explore factors influencing cognitive development in stroke patients.
• To apply the group-based trajectory model to analyze cognitive changes over time.

Main Methods:

• A longitudinal cohort study involving 1060 stroke patients.
• Data collected from September 2021 to February 2023 with follow-ups at 1, 3, and 6 months.
• The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores were used to model cognitive trajectories.

Main Results:

• Four distinct cognitive development trajectories were identified: persistent severe post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI), persistent mild PSCI, PSCI risk group, and normal cognitive group.
• A total of 655 patients completed the follow-up assessments.
• The group-based trajectory model successfully differentiated these subgroups based on MMSE changes.

Conclusions:

• Cognitive development trajectories post-stroke exhibit significant heterogeneity.
• Recognizing these distinct trajectories is essential for identifying at-risk populations.
• Tailored monitoring and interventions based on specific cognitive trajectories can improve outcomes for stroke survivors.