Stroke Survivors Face High Risk of Cognitive Impairment

Prof. Rufus Akinyemi, the President of the African Stroke Organisation (ASO) and a consultant neurologist at the University of Ibadan, stated that up to 50% of stroke survivors may develop cognitive impairment, affecting memory, attention, language, and executive function. During the ASO-WSO Webinar Series on Post-Stroke Dementia, he emphasized that cognitive impairment should not be seen as a secondary consequence of stroke, as it significantly impacts survivors' independence and quality of life.

Akinyemi noted that studies indicate a high burden of cognitive impairment among stroke survivors, particularly in Africa, where vascular disease contributes significantly to dementia. He referenced the COFAS study conducted in Nigeria from 2010 to 2012, which found that 24% of 147 stroke survivors had dementia, while 40% experienced cognitive impairment without dementia.

He called for routine cognitive assessments in stroke care and identified older age and lower educational attainment as risk factors, while regular fish consumption appeared protective.