The prevalence of stroke in young adults, defined as adults < 50 years of age, is increasing globally. Younger patients are faced with additional challenges, including occupational and childcare demands, in additional to restricted access to resources currently allocated to patients over age 65. The physiological risk factors that contribute to stroke have been extensively studied. However, there is also a need to understand socioeconomic factors that also play into this risk and are potential targets for primary prevention at the population level. In this retrospective study, I aim to analyze the characteristics of young stroke adults (aged 18 – 50) between 2018, 2021 (mid pandemic) and 2024, who have attended the acute stroke service at St James’s Hospital and identify relevant trends and associations. Using the electronic health record, data will be collected on stroke subtype, mechanism, rick factors and comorbidities, outcomes and socioeconomic factors. Group findings will be reported in isolation and then compared to national figures for stroke in the same years (NOCA). I believe that these findings will allow us to advocate for and support vulnerable subgroups within our population, inform preventive strategies and enhance the provision of care. A detailed understanding of the various risk actors will help us improve outcomes for these groups and hopefully in turn, influence the upward trend in stroke in young adults.
