Estimating the Magnitude of Genetic Factors by Calculating the Genetic Relative Risk of Stroke in First-Ever Lacunar Stroke Patients
2011

Genetic Risk Factors for Lacunar Stroke

Sample size: 195 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Knottnerus Iris L. H., Gielen Marij, Lodder Jan, Rouhl Rob P. W., Staals Julie, Vlietinck Robert, van Oostenbrugge Robert J.

Primary Institution: Maastricht University Medical Centre

Hypothesis

What is the genetic relative risk of stroke in first-degree relatives of lacunar stroke patients?

Conclusion

The study found an increased genetic relative risk of stroke in first-degree relatives of patients with lacunar stroke.

Supporting Evidence

  • Strokes occurred in 13.5% of first-degree relatives of lacunar stroke patients.
  • The genetic relative risk was 2.94 for overall first-degree relatives.
  • The genetic relative risk was 4.52 for patients' parents.
  • The genetic relative risk was 2.10 for patients' siblings.

Takeaway

If someone in your family has had a lacunar stroke, you might be more likely to have a stroke too, because it runs in families.

Methodology

The study involved collecting family history of stroke through questionnaires and comparing it with a community cohort.

Potential Biases

Potential for shared environmental factors influencing familial aggregation of stroke.

Limitations

Self-reported data on family history may not accurately reflect stroke subtypes.

Participant Demographics

The cohort consisted of 195 first-ever lacunar stroke patients, predominantly of native Dutch origin, with a mean age of 63.1 years and 60% male.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.97 for healthy controls

Confidence Interval

95%CI 2.45–3.53 for overall first-degree relatives

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0021439

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