Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of stroke and identify key risk factors and treatment outcomes among patients presenting at King Fahad Hospital (KFH) in Al-Baha, Saudi Arabia.
Methods: A cross-sectional retrospective study design was employed, analyzing data from stroke patients treated at KFH between the years 2016 and 2017. The study population included patients diagnosed with ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. Data were collected on demographics, clinical symptoms, risk factors, medications, and outcomes.
Results: The most common symptoms were weakness (68.89%) and syncope (60%). Hypertension (66.67%), diabetes (66.67%), and hyperlipidemia (60%) were the most frequent comorbidities. Aspirin (77.78%) and statins (84.44%) were commonly prescribed. The survival rates were 87.5% for ischemic stroke and 92.86% for hemorrhagic stroke. Hypertension was significantly associated with ischemic stroke (p-value = 0.025), while oral contraceptives were associated with lower odds of hemorrhagic stroke (p-value = 0.049).
Conclusion: This study highlighted the critical role of hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia in stroke prevalence. The findings underscore the need for targeted prevention strategies and improved acute stroke care in Al-Baha. Further research is recommended to explore regional variations in stroke risk factors and outcomes.

Key words: Stroke, hypertension, diabetes, ischemic stroke, Saudi Arabia.