Epidemiological Profile of Stroke in Patients Admitted to a Teaching Hospital, in Babil Governorate, Iraq

Abstract

Stroke was considered as a high priority public health problem especially income countries including middle and low income Iraq. To investigate the epidemiologic characteristics of confirmed stroke patients admitted to Al Sadiq reference hospital in Babil governorate Iraq. This was a descriptive cross -sectional study, data were collected by using a semi structure questionnaire which included demographic characteristics questions and questions about comorbidities and other associated factors for diagnosed stroke cases,diagnosis depend on clinical picture and Computerized Tomography. Data collection was done by researchers through face to face interview after obtaining their informed verbal consents. Female to male ratio was (1.5-1), the mean age was (63years), most of patients were urban dwellers. The majority of participants had low educational level; Ischemic stroke constituted (51.9%). Hypertension was associated with (70.9%), diabetes mellitus was second comorbidity associated with stroke (40%), while (30.4%) of them gave a previous history of stroke among the study group, about 38% were ether current tobacco smokers (11.39%) or ex-smokers (26.6%). Stroke was common serious problem in Iraqi males, the most common associated comorbidities among stroke patients are hypertension, diabetes, and previous stroke. Prevention measures at different levels are strongly requested.