Shedding Light on the Causes and Characteristics of Stroke in Lebanon: A Systematic Review of Literature

Abstract

Background: The prevalence and severity of stroke in Lebanon has increased over the past decade and stroke is currently the second leading cause of death in the country. Methods: We systematically reviewed existing research on stroke prevalence, risk factors, mortality and morbidity of stroke, stroke treatment, and stroke education to assess the epidemiology of stroke in Lebanon. A literature search was conducted on the PubMed database for articles presenting data in any of these 5 categories in Lebanon, as well as articles discussing the Middle East and North Africa region generally. Results: A high prevalence of modifiable risk factors (cigarette and waterpipe smoking) and risk factors that could be mitigated by lifestyle changes (obesity and hypertension) were found in Lebanon. Stroke mortality rates and risk factors of mortality were consistent with global trends, though the cost of treatment in Lebanon was significantly higher than in other developing nations. Conclusion: Urgent public health initiatives are needed to educate the public about the dangers of modifiable stroke risk factors and to reduce the burden of stroke in Lebanon.