Comparison of risk factors that play a role in extra-cranial carotid artery atherosclerosis

Abstract

Which risk factors are important in preventing or stabilizing possible extra-cranial carotid artery stenosis is unclear. We aimed to investigate risk factors that are associated with extra-cranial carotid artery stenosis in patients with ischemic stroke. Method: The records of 215 patients with ischemic stroke who were admitted to Taksim Research Hospital were screened. Patients who had been monitored with color Doppler ultrasonography were then categorized on the basis of the degree of stenosis in the carotid artery (group A: 0%-49%, group B: 50%-69%, group C: >70%). Hypertension, diabetes mellitus hyperlipidemia, cigarette smoking, ischemic heart disease, age, and sex were evaluated as risk factors. These risk factors were compared among the three groups by using SPSS version 17. Results: We found a significant relationship between high mean low-density lipoprotein and the severity of carotid stenosis (p<0.05). A simila relationship was found between sex and the severity of carotid stenosi (p<0.05). Conclusions: A high low-density lipoprotein level and male sex are important risk factors for having extra-cranial carotid artery stenosis Therefore, use of more aggressive lipid-lowering treatments, recommending an appropriate diet, and encouraging physical activity in hyperlipidemic men are important in preventive medical practice.