A retrospective study of demographic profile and risk factors associated with basilar artery occlusion: An Indian perspective

Introduction: Basilar artery occlusion (BAO) is a subset of posterior circulation stroke, which is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Various modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of BAO. This study aims to evaluate the demographic characteristics and risk factors in patients with BAO. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective observational study conducted at a tertiary care hospital, in Kota, Rajasthan. A total of 180 patients, who were admitted between August 2019 and August 2022 were included in the study and presented with a clinical diagnosis of BAO supported by neuroimaging. Demographic details along with the risk factor profile were recorded. The results were analyzed with the help of SPSS. Statistical tests such as frequency analysis, descriptive analysis, Chi-square test, and Karl’s Pearson coefficient of correlation, were conducted. Results: A total of 180 patients were enrolled in the study with 116 male and 64 female patients with a mean age of 59.03 years and 57.70 years, respectively. The maximum number of the patients belonged to the age group of 61–80 years (42%). The most common risk factor was hypertension (66.11%) followed by dyslipidemia (44.44%). Other important risk factors were diabetes (20%), tobacco chewing (16.11%), smoking (16.11%), atrial fibrillation (11.67%), and alcohol use (6.67%). Conclusion: Our study underlined the importance of demographic profiles as well as various risk factors that are associated with BAO. The results of this research can be used for the primary and secondary prevention of BAO and will also support future research.