ASSESSMENT OF MODIFIABLE AND NON-MODIFIABLE RISK FACTORS IN ISCHEMIC STROKE: CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY AT A TERTIARY CARE CENTRE OF INDIA

Objective: To investigate the role of modiable and non-modiable risk factors in Ischaemic Stroke. The author used a cross-sectional Methods: approach among 66 patients. Baseline CT- Brain (plain and post contrast) was performed to rule out hemorrhage and dene the location of ischaemic infarct. Detailed history about risk factors was taken which comprised of age , gender, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, smoking, previous stroke/ TIA. Laboratory values were recorded. Non-invasive evaluation by ultrasonography and color doppler of bilateral carotid arteries was performed with measurement of intima media thickness(IMT). Study consisted of 66 patients, with age in the range of Results: 26 - 85 years. 18 out of 66 (27%) belonged to 25-55 years age group, representing relatively younger population, as shown by other studies pertaining to Asian study groups . 12 (18.2%) subjects showed signicant IMT of greater than 0.9 mm . Recorded mean IMT among patients with plaque was 1.22 mm . Carotid plaque was seen in 42 (63.6%) patients . The most prevalent risk factors in the study population were found to be hypertension, smoking and diabetes. Doppler ultrasonography was found to be an effective tool Conclusion: for evaluation of carotid arteries. Increased intima media thickness was associated with increased risk of future neurological events. IMT measurement greater than 0.9 mm could prompt further evaluation . The knowledge about the presence and prevalence of various modiable and non-modiable risk factors in a given population could guide preventive care and screening to help reduce a signicant burden associated with neurovascular morbidity and mortality .