Meta-analysis of 7,048 first-time stroke patients across six countries reports post-stroke cognitive impairment incidence rates.

ObjectiveTo clarify the incidence of post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) in first-time stroke patients through meta-analysis.MethodsWe conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for studies reporting PSCI incidence up to May 5, 2024. Pooled incidence was calculated using Stata 18.0 with a random-effects model.ResultsA total of 11 publications from six countries with a sample population of 7,048 were included in the final analysis. The overall incidence of PSCI in first-time stroke patients was estimated to be 46% [95% CI (36–57), I2 = 98.63%]. Subgroup analysis showed that the prevalence of PSCI was 38% in male and 45% in female; The prevalence of PSCI was 54% for hemorrhagic stroke and 44% for ischemic stroke; The prevalence of PSCI was 38% in stroke patients possessing hypertension and 32% in stroke patients without hypertension; The prevalence of PSCI was 44% in stroke patients with diabetes and 36% in stroke patients without diabetes; The prevalence of PSCI was 46% in stroke patients with hyperlipidemia and 40% in stroke patients without hyperlipidemia; The incidence of PSCI in stroke patients aged > 60 years was 44%.ConclusionNearly half of patients with first-time stroke develop PSCI and the rate is higher in females, patients aged > 60 years, hemorrhagic stroke subtype, and those with hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia compared to males, ischemic stroke subtype, and those without underlying diseases.Systematic review registrationThe protocol for this review was registered with the PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42024611457).