A recent study presented at the European Academy of Neurology (EAN) Congress in Austria showed that a majority of people who got strokes have Unknown risk factors for underlying disease. A study conducted in Switzerland during 2003-2018 showed that the most common factors for vascular disease were dyslipidemia, an imbalance of blood fats such as high cholesterol or raised levels of triglycerides (61.4%), followed by high blood pressure (23.7%), and atrial fibrillation (10.2%). These conditions were further associated with an irregular heartbeat that can progress to stroke.

Dr. Andre Rego stated that stroke occurs when a blood clot or other blockage cuts off blood supply to the brain. Overall, the study identified 67.7% of stroke patients with previously undiagnosed major risk factors (UMRF) along with a positive association between UMRF patients and lower age, non-Caucasian, contraceptive use in women aged under 55, and smoking for patients aged 55 and above. The study also found a negative association between antiplatelet (blood thinner) use before the stroke and higher Body Mass Index (BMI).

Hence, he concluded that the study was conducted to identify potential stroke patients who may require more intensive prevention and surveillance in the future.

(Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/undiagnosed-major-risk-factors-found-in-two-thirds-of-ischaemic-stroke-patients-study-101656314653842.html )