Epidemiological clinical profile of patients post-stroke to the Hospital de Clínicas de San Lorenzo, Paraguay, in the period 2022-2024

Abstract

Introduction: Four out of five deaths from cardiovascular disease are due to strokes, one of the leading non-communicable diseases causing disability and morbidity. Materials and Methods: An analytical, descriptive, cross-sectional study with a mixed approach was conducted, focusing on exploratory-descriptive analysis and non-experimental design. Data collection instruments consisted of complete clinical records of patients. Results: Male predominance (60%) over females (40%) was noted across different age groups, with the 60-79 age group being most represented. Hypertension (67%) and diabetes mellitus (28%) were the main identified risk factors. Ischemic strokes were most common (94%), with frequent lesions in the Middle Cerebral Artery. Prevalent symptoms included hemiparesis (53%), dysarthria (46%), and facial asymmetry (17%). Conclusion: Male sex and the 60-79 age group predominated in sociodemographic factors. Prevalent risk factors included hypertension, diabetes mellitus, smoking, and prior strokes. Ischemic stroke, particularly affecting the Middle Cerebral Artery, was most common. Common presenting symptoms included hemiparesis, dysarthria, and facial asymmetry.