199 Hospital Discharges for Acute Stroke in Ireland: National Data 2005-2017 (Age and Ageing)

AbstractBackgroundAcute stroke and its aftermath is the commonest cause of acquired disability amongst community dwelling adults.Analysis of hospital discharge rates over time and the influence of patient age is important and may offer important insights on how best to configure stroke prevention and clinical services.Here, we analyse hospital discharge data for Ireland for 2005-2017.MethodsA retrospective review of stroke discharges, with a primary diagnosis of stroke or subarachnoid haemorrhage, was performed.National data on acute hospital discharge from all acute hospitals in Ireland was obtained from the Hospital Inpatient Patient Enquiry (HIPE) database for discharges between 1st January 2005 and 31st December 2017.Results were examined across 4 age groups; 15-49 years, 49 to 64 years, 65 to 80 years and >80 years.Age specific acute stroke hospital discharge rates were calculated using Irish population census data.ResultsThere has been a steady increase in the incidence of ischaemic stroke in those between 15- 49 years between 2005-2017 (0.08 v 0.18 per 1,000 patient-years). Rates of haemorrhagic stroke remained stable. A similar increase was noted in those aged 50-64 years.There is a small downward trend in the incidence of ischaemic stroke in the 65-80 year age category (4.31 v 3.82 per 1000-patient years), with the biggest decrease in females. Stroke rates in the over 80s has remained stable.ConclusionBetter understanding is needed of the risk factors underlying this worrying trend.Clinical service providers will need to adapt to better deal with the challenges specific to stroke at younger age.