Stroke among women, ethnic groups, young adults, and children

Abstract

The chapter discusses the occurrence of stroke among women, ethnic groups, young adults, and children. There are a number of different groups of people among whom the incidence and etiology of stroke differ. Incidence of stroke is lower among women than men, and is lower among young adults and children. Women have a number of unique risk factors for stroke that involve their reproductive capacity, although other factors may also be involved. People aged less than 45 years with stroke require special consideration. The frequencies of underlying etiology differ from the older stroke population and a greater breadth of investigation is required. Although considered rare, stroke is more common than brain tumors in children. Arteriopathies are the most commonly identified risk factor for arterial ischemic stroke, followed by cardiac and thromboembolic disorders. Neurological sequelae are common in arterial ischemic stroke and sinovenous thrombosis.