United Kingdom Young Stroke Study (UKYSS): study protocol for an ambispective observational study

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• 10-15% of all strokes occur in young adults (18-49 years).
• UK young stroke incidence is increasing, with diverse causes and significant risk factors.
• Long-term functional and psychological issues are common in young stroke survivors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To gather representative data on young stroke patients in the UK.
• To develop a prognostic tool for primary and secondary stroke prevention in young adults.
• To understand the long-term sequelae of strokes in this demographic.

Main Methods:

• An ambispective observational study (UKYSS) of first-ever ischaemic or haemorrhagic strokes in adults aged 18-49.
• Data collection on demographics, risk factors, clinical details, investigations, and outcomes.
• Statistical analysis including descriptive statistics, Kaplan-Meier curves, and Cox proportional hazards models for prognostic assessment.

Main Results:

• Data collection ongoing for strokes between 2013-2020.
• Analysis will identify risk factors and develop a validated prognostic model.
• Patient-reported outcomes on functional domains will be collected via questionnaire.

Conclusions:

• The UKYSS aims to provide crucial insights into young stroke aetiology and prognosis.
• Findings will inform the development of targeted prevention and management strategies.
• This research will contribute to reducing the burden of stroke in young adults.