Related Experiment Videos
The J-curve phenomenon in stroke recurrence
K Irie1, T Yamaguchi, K Minematsu
1Cerebrovascular Division, National Cardiovascular Center, Osaka, Japan.
Stroke
|December 1, 1993
Summary
Lowering blood pressure after stroke doesn't always prevent recurrence. A J-curve relationship exists between poststroke diastolic blood pressure and stroke recurrence, indicating an optimal range for better outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Epidemiology
Background:
- The relationship between poststroke blood pressure and stroke recurrence is not fully understood.
- Optimal blood pressure targets for stroke survivors remain undefined.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between poststroke blood pressure levels and the risk of recurrent stroke.
- To determine if a specific blood pressure range is associated with lower stroke recurrence rates.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 368 hypertensive stroke patients observed for at least 6 months.
- Evaluation of stroke recurrence rates based on baseline and poststroke blood pressure, stroke subtypes, age, and antihypertensive treatment.
Main Results:
- A J-curve relationship was observed between poststroke diastolic blood pressure and stroke recurrence.
- The lowest recurrence rate (3.8% per patient-year) occurred with diastolic blood pressure between 80-84 mm Hg.
- Optimal diastolic blood pressure ranges varied by stroke subtype (atherothrombotic vs. lacunar infarction).
Conclusions:
- Lowering blood pressure poststroke may not consistently reduce recurrence risk.
- The J-curve phenomenon complicates the effects of poststroke blood pressure and antihypertensive therapy on recurrence.