Influence of lifestyle on stroke risk among adults over 40 years in northern China: A retrospective case-control study

This study investigates the association between lifestyle factors and stroke occurrence based on health examination data of community residents aged ≥ 40 years. From July 2020 to November 2020, we collected data from 2 communities in Shijiazhuang using convenience sampling combined with cluster sampling. Demographic information, physical examination results, and laboratory test data were collected via the Community and Township Population Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Disease Risk Factor Screening Form. We used multiple binary logistic regression analysis to assess the associations between different lifestyle factors and stroke risk, adjusting for potential confounding variables. The prevalence of stroke among community residents aged ≥ 40 years in Shijiazhuang was 2.27%. Significant differences were observed between stroke patients and non-stroke participants in terms of eating habits, fruit and vegetable intake, physical inactivity, overweight status, and smoking behavior. After adjusting for confounding factors, adequate fruit and vegetable intake and a balanced meat-vegetable diet were associated with a protective effect against stroke. Smoking, overweight, and physical inactivity were identified as independent risk factors for stroke. No significant association was found between alcohol consumption or salt taste preference and stroke risk. Compared with participants with 0 to 1 unhealthy lifestyle factors, the stroke risk was 1.75-fold, 2.70-fold, and 22.67-fold higher in those with 2 to 3, 4 to 5, and ≥6 unhealthy lifestyle factors, respectively. Healthy lifestyles play a crucial role in stroke prevention. Future studies should further investigate optimal dietary patterns and lifestyle habits for reducing stroke risk, considering individual nutritional needs and preferences.