Epidemiological and Clinical Profile of Acute Stroke in Young Adults from a Tertiary Stroke Center in Abu Dhabi—A Retrospective Study

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Authors: Sunitha Bhagavathi Mysore, Sameeha Salim Al Mansoori, Shamma Majed Alhebsi, Noura Ismail Albloushi, Abrar Ali Alshehhi, Jahre Henryson Cuadra Lim, Muhammed Al Jarrah, Cathrine Tadyanemhandu
Cited by: 2
References: 52

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Within the last decade, there has been a 19% increase in stroke-related mortality among individuals aged 45–64. Understanding stroke characteristics is crucial, particularly in the younger age groups. This study describes the key demographics and clinical and anthropometric characteristics based on age categories in young adults admitted to the stroke unit in Abu Dhabi. Methods: This retrospective observational study had data between October 2024 and March 2025. Data were analyzed descriptively using SPSS, with a more detailed analysis conducted across two age-based groups. Results: A total of 51 patients were included, with the median age of 40 (IQR: 37–48) and 44 (86.3%) being males. The median hospital length of stay was 4 days (2–9 days). Most of the patients, 47 (92.2%), had ischemic stroke, with 24 (45.1%) presenting with right-side weakness, and bilateral weakness in 4 (7.8%). The median NIHSS score on admission was 4 (IQR 2–9). Prior to admission, 18 (35.3%) of the patients were known hypertensive, and 12 (23.5%) were diabetic. In terms of anthropometric measurements, the median waist-to-height ratio was 0.58 (0.5–0.69) and BMI was 25.7 (24.2–29.4), with 31 (60.8%) of the patients categorized as either obese or overweight. The statistical significance difference across the age groups was found in the gender distribution only (p = 0.034). Conclusions: In the UAE, more young men are experiencing Stroke due to lifestyle-related factors, many of which can be prevented. This growing trend calls for early screening, better prevention efforts, and tailored rehabilitation programs.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Acute Ischemic Stroke Management Neurological Disease Mechanisms and Treatments Neurological Disorders and Treatments

Publication details

Journal / source
Journal of Clinical Medicine
Publisher
MDPI AG
Volume
15
Issue
2
Pages
727–727
Publication date
15 January 2026
Language
EN