Depressive symptoms associated with increased stroke risk

In a mostly Hispanic sample, depressive symptoms were associated with an increased risk of incident ischemic stroke [1].

Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Center of Epidemiological Studies–Depression Scale (CES-D); a score ≥16 was considered elevated. In a prospective cohort, data were available of 1,104 participants (mean age 70 years; 61% women, 69% Hispanics). At baseline, 198 participants (18%) had elevated depressive symptoms. After a mean of 14 years, 101 participants had had incident strokes; 87 strokes were ischemic. The cumulative incidence of stroke of any type was 14% and 13%, respectively. Having elevated depressive symptoms significantly increased the risk of ischemic stroke (HR 1.75). Stroke risk increased with depression severity. Every 5-point increase in CES-D score further increased the risk of ischemic stroke by 12%.

1. Simonetto M, et al. AAN 2019, S1.003.