2025, Vol. 7, Issue 3, Part A

Author(s): Saif Mohammed Tawfeeq and Nawras Najah

Abstract: Background: Stroke is one of the biggest public health problems in Iraq, with an increase in incidence rates, which is compounded by a continually challenged healthcare system (including a lack of rehab services). Objective: To explore the stroke epidemiological burden in Iraq and assess current rehabilitation practices within the context of the healthcare system. Methods: For this cross-sectional study, we examined all stroke presentations at 12 private Iraqi hospitals between January 2022 and December 2023. Stroke patterns were recorded for 1,847 stroke patients and detailed data on demographics, clinical characteristics, risk factors, and rehabilitation outcomes captured. The rehabilitation capacity and practices of each facility were characterized. Results: The overall incidence of stroke was 208.7 per 100,000 population (208.7/100,000). Ischemic strokes (82.4%) were the most common, followed by intracerebral hemorrhage (16.1%), and subarachnoid hemorrhage (1.5%). The average age of patients was 64.2±13.1 (male=57.3%). The most prevalent risk factor was hypertension (68.9%), followed by diabetes mellitus (39.2%), and smoking (41.7%). Overall, only 23.4% of patients received rehabilitation services useful for rehabilitation. The 30-day mortality risk was 18.7%, which varied regionally. Conclusions: The overall burden from stroke in Iraq is considerable and the rehabilitation infrastructure is limited. The nation's epidemiological profile demonstrates a process of epidemiological transition, with a predominance of metabolic risk factors. Iraq is in urgent need of national investment in a stroke care infrastructure and relevant rehabilitation services to address this increasing public health challenge.

DOI: 10.22271/27069567.2025.v7.i3a.652

Pages: 41-48 | Views: 898 | Downloads: 288

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