Time trends in stroke incidence and modifiable risk factor prevalence in England (2018–2024): A record linkage population-based study

A study conducted by researchers from the CVD-COVID-UK/COVID-IMPACT Consortium aimed to analyze the trends in stroke incidence and modifiable risk factor prevalence in England from 2018 to 2024. The research found that stroke incidence was increasing among younger age groups while it was decreasing in older age groups, particularly affecting ethnic minority populations during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

The study employed a record linkage approach, utilizing data from primary care, hospital admissions, death certificates, and stroke-specific national audit records.

The researchers discovered a significant increase in the incidence of stroke among individuals aged under 55 years, with an age-standardised incidence ratio (IRR) of 1.19 (95% confidence interval: 1.15 to 1.24) compared to those aged over 55 years. This trend remained consistent even after the pandemic. However, the prevalence of modifiable stroke risk factors, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity, remained largely unchanged during and after the pandemic for both younger and older age groups.

Notably, the study identified a concerning rise in the number of undiagnosed cases of premorbid hypertension and diabetes among younger stroke patients, suggesting potential gaps in primary care regarding the identification and diagnosis of these risk factors. The findings highlight the need for urgent action to improve stroke risk factor identification and management within primary care settings, particularly for ethnic minority groups who are disproportionately affected by the rising stroke incidence among younger individuals.