In a nutshell
This study compared the benefits of stroke care facilities among different groups of patients.
Some background
Stroke is a sudden brain dysfunction caused by blood flow disturbances. It can be caused by a blood clot in the brain (ischemic stroke) or a burst blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). Both types of stroke cause a lack of oxygen and food reaching the brain tissue, resulting in cell death.
Most stroke survivors suffer from changes in their physical and emotional well-being. These changes can include physical disabilities, trouble with speech and language, pain and depression.
Organised stroke facilities, such as stroke care units, rehabilitation centers and aspirin treatment have previously been shown to improve outcome significantly after an acute stroke. However, little is known about which stroke patients benefit more than others. This study examined the effect stroke facilities have on survival up to 1 year after stroke occurrence across different subgroups, grouped by care, age, ethnic group, stroke sub-type and level of consciousness.
Methods & findings
Using the South London Stroke Register, this study examined the data of 4,026 patients with a first-ever stroke occurrence (average age of 71 years). Out of these 4,026 patients, 1949 (56.4%) were managed on a stroke unit.
All of the patients who received care intervention had a reduced risk of death. The greatest benefits were seen among younger patients aged <65 years (with a 61% decrease in the risk of death compared to 22% reduction in older patients of 85+years). Additionally, patients who had reduced level of consciousness upon hospital admission significantly benefited.
The bottom line
Specific stroke facilities (such as stroke care unit, rehabilitation therapies, and aspirin treatment) after stroke improve the one year survival outcomes of patients with stroke, with a significantly greater effect observed in younger patients (<65 years), haemorrhagic strokes and low levels of consciousness upon hospital admission.
The fine print
This study did not take into account the severity of stroke or the duration of care therapy when determining its effect on patient outcome. Therefore the effect of therapy on different stroke patients warrants further clarification and research.
What’s next?
If you or someone you know has suffered from a stroke, speak to a doctor about local stroke care facilities that may help improve health outcome.
Published By :
PLOS ONE
Date :
Apr 25, 2013
