Hypertension, Smoking, and Genetic Predisposition as Key Predictors of Stroke: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Stroke remains a leading global cause of death and long-term disability, with a disproportionately rising burden in developing countries. Both personal traits and medical history are key factors influencing stroke risk. This study aimed to explore the relationship between age, gender, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, smoking habits, and genetic background with stroke occurrence.

A quantitative cross-sectional study was carried out among hospital patients chosen through purposive sampling. Data were collected from medical records and structured interviews, then analyzed using the Chi-square test with a significance level of p < 0.05.

Hypertension (p = 0.044), smoking (p = 0.032), and genetic history (p = 0.012) were significantly associated with stroke incidence. In contrast, age (p = 0.066), gender (p = 0.062), and diabetes mellitus (p = 0.130) showed no significant association.

These findings emphasize hypertension, smoking, and genetic predisposition as primary factors for stroke. Improving control of risk factors, especially managing blood pressure and quitting smoking, should be a top priority to effectively lower stroke occurrence and recurrence.