Researchers have argued that “more needs to be done” for depressed stroke survivors in light of new findings showing that almost 60% of stroke survivors would experience depression within 18 years—a much higher estimation than previous studies, and one that dwarfs the 22% rate of depression seen across the general population over the same timeframe.
A study led by King’s College London (London, UK), and published recently in The Lancet Regional Health—Europe, also found that close to 90% of cases of depression occurred within five years of surviving a stroke, potentially indicating that this is a key time for healthcare intervention.
“Quality of life is important for stroke survivors, as there is evidence depressed survivors have a reduced survival rate,” said Lu Liu (King’s College London, London, UK). “There are many reasons why this could be, including disruptions to the survivor’s social life, reduced physical ability and inflammatory disorders observed in depressed patients. More clinical attention should be paid to patients with depression that is longer than one year because of the high risks of experiencing persistent depression.”
The study—which was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR)—looked at the incidence of mild and severe depression in the South London Stroke Register, a cohort of 6,600 survivors of stroke in the Lambeth and North Southwark boroughs of London, UK. The population included in the study was 55.4% male, with a median age of 68 years. Some 62.5% of the population was from a white ethnic background, while 29.7% was from a Black ethnic background.
While post-stroke depression is common after stroke, and associated with poor functional ability and increased mortality, the study in question also identified that severe depression tended to occur earlier after stroke, had a longer duration, and was quicker to recur, as compared to mild depression.
“Depression is common in stroke survivors, but our research shows it persists for much longer than previously thought,” said Yanzhong Wang (King’s College London, London, UK). “We know that depression can limit a stroke survivor’s mobility—including simple things like walking and holding objects—and can also increase the risk of death. With an ageing population in the UK and an increase in the proportion of older adults, it’s essential we plan for rising healthcare demands to tackle the anticipated surge in stroke cases.”
