New VASCage Study Published in BMC Neurology Highlights Increased Risk of Post-Stroke Dysphagia in Patients with Multiple Comorbidities
Stroke remains one of the leading causes of death globally, with particularly high age-standardised mortality rates in low-income countries, as defined by the World Bank. Among the many complications that follow ischemic stroke, swallowing impairment—or dysphagia—has been identified as a significant factor leading to poorer outcomes and severe complications, such as pulmonary infections.
A newly published study by VASCage by Anel Karisik et al., featured in BMC Neurology, provides valuable insights into the heightened risks of dysphagia among stroke patients with multiple comorbidities. Dysphagia is not only a debilitating condition in itself, but it also exacerbates recovery difficulties, necessitating early detection and intervention to improve patient outcomes.
Key Findings of the VASCage Study
The VASCage research involved a comprehensive analysis of 2,054 patients who had experienced an ischemic stroke. While previous studies have established that higher stroke severity and advanced age are key contributors to the development of post-stroke dysphagia, this new study explores the impact of comorbidities in greater detail.
Notably, the study found that patients with multiple pre-existing health conditions—such as diabetes mellitus and arterial hypertension—were at a significantly higher risk of developing dysphagia following an ischemic stroke. While these comorbidities had already been associated with a higher likelihood of swallowing impairments, the VASCage study adds depth to this understanding by highlighting the cumulative risk posed by having multiple health issues simultaneously.
Importance of Early Detection
One of the most critical insights from the study is the clear call for early and thorough screening of dysphagia in patients with multiple comorbidities. Identifying swallowing impairments early in the post-acute phase of ischemic stroke has been shown to dramatically reduce the incidence of serious complications, particularly pulmonary infections.
With these findings, healthcare providers are urged to prioritise dysphagia screening, especially in patients who present with a combination of risk factors such as older age, more severe strokes, and multiple comorbidities. This approach is expected to improve patient outcomes, enhance recovery prospects, and reduce the likelihood of post-stroke complications.
Conclusion
The VASCage study provides a crucial contribution to the growing body of research on post-stroke dysphagia. By identifying the heightened risk among patients with multiple comorbidities, it underscores the importance of comprehensive early screening and intervention strategies in the management of ischemic stroke.
Karisik et al. BMC Neurology (2024) 24:358 https://doi.org/10.1186/s12883-024-03863-1
