ABSTRACT NUMBER: ESOC2026A952 RETROSPECTIVE STUDY ON AGE DIFFERENCES AMONG STROKE PATIENTS POST–COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Abstract Background and aims Stroke remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with incidence influenced by factors such as age and comorbidities. Although stroke has traditionally been more common in older populations, emerging evidence suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic may have altered stroke patterns, particularly with respect to age distribution. This study examines changes in the age demographics of stroke patients following the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted reviewing stroke cases diagnosed between January 2020 and October 2024.Data were collected on patient age, gender, stroke occurrence and COVID-19 status. Descriptive statistics and statistical tests (chi-square, t-test) were used to analyze differences in stroke incidence during and after the pandemic. Results A total of 1,240 stroke cases were analyzed, with a mean patient age of 54.2 years. The highest proportion of cases occurred in the 51–60 year age group (25.9%). Following the onset of the pandemic, a noticeable increase in stroke incidence was observed among younger age groups, particularly those under 40 years, with a peak observed in 2022. Male patients represented 66.1% of cases, demonstrating a persistent gender predominance. Although stroke incidence increased significantly in 2022 compared to earlier years, this trend was not statistically sustained in 2023. Conclusions The study demonstrates a post-pandemic shift toward younger stroke patients. Persistent male predominance was observed. These findings underscore the importance of targeted prevention strategies for younger populations and highlight the need for further research on the long-term cerebrovascular effects associated with the COVID-19 era. Conflict of interest Najod Alsabaan. Nothing to disclose