Burden of Vascular Neurological Disorders: A Cross-sectional Multicenter Study

Abstract

Background and Objective:

Stroke remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with a particularly high burden in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) such as Pakistan. Despite its growing prevalence, limited nationwide data exist on vascular diseases, their risk factors, and disability outcomes. The objective of this study was to identify the frequency and age-stratified type of vascular disease incidence among in-patient hospital admissions.

Methods:

A retrospective observational study was conducted across 39 neurology centers in Pakistan, spanning both public and private sectors from August 2017 to December 2019. Data on demographics, comorbidities, and stroke type were systematically collected from hospital records. The severity of disability was assessed using the Modified Rankin Scale (mRS). Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS.

Results:

Among 5,735 patients, stroke was the most prevalent vascular disease (78.6%), with ischemic stroke comprising 60.9% of cases. Stroke was more common among males (65.8%) and individuals with primary education (45.2%). Hypertension (62.2%) and diabetes (26%) were the most frequent comorbidities. Analysis of disability status revealed that 34.3% of stroke patients suffered from moderate to severe disability (mRS 3-5).

Conclusion:

This study highlights the substantial burden of stroke and vascular diseases in Pakistan, emphasizing the urgent need for preventive strategies, improved stroke care, and a nationwide registry to guide healthcare policies and interventions