INVESTIGATING ASYMPTOMATIC CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE IN PATIENTS WITH ISCHAEMIC STROKE: AN UNDETECTED THREAT

Background: Ischaemic stroke is a leading cause of mortality and disability worldwide, often related to insufcient blood ow due to cerebral artery blockage. Recent evidence suggests a complex association between ischaemic stroke and cardiovascular diseases, including coronary artery disease (CAD). Asymptomatic CAD, which remains undiagnosed and untreated, can lead to recurrent cardiovascular events, making it vital to investigate its prevalence in ischaemic stroke patients. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional observational study on 240 ischaemic stroke patients, excluding those with prior CAD or cardiac events. Demographic data, stroke characteristics, and risk factors were collected. Cardiac evaluations, including 12-lead ECG and echocardiography, were performed to assess asymptomatic CAD. Results: The prevalence of asymptomatic CAD in ischaemic stroke patients was 24.2%. Age (p < 0.001) and risk factors, such as hypertension (OR 2.62, 95% CI: 1.40 - 4.90) and smoking (OR 2.10, 95% CI: 1.17 - 3.77), were signicantly associated with the coexistence of asymptomatic CAD and stroke. Conclusion: Asymptomatic CAD is relatively common in ischaemic stroke patients.Early detection and management of asymptomatic CAD in stroke patients may improve overall patient outcomes and reduce the risk of future cardiovascular events.