ABSTRACT NUMBER: ESOC2026A2178 STROKE IN YOUNG ADULTS: GENDER PERSPECTIVE AND RISK FACTORS

Abstract Background and aims To analyze gender differences in risk factors, clinical features, and outcomes in young adults hospitalized for ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack. Methods Retrospective observational study of consecutive patients (2019-2024) with ischemic stroke/TIA at a tertiary hospital. We compared men (n=106) and women (n=52) for demographics, vascular risk factors, etiology (TOAST), treatment, and functional evolution (NIHSS/mRS at admission, discharge, 3 months, and 1 year). Results Males showed significantly higher rates of current smoking (66.0% vs. 32.7%; p=0.0028) and alcohol consumption (29.5% vs. 9.6%; p=0.0202). Females had a higher prevalence of cancer history (11.5% vs. 1.9%; p=0.034) and oral contraceptive use (11.5% vs. 0%; p=0.0017). Carotid stenosis differed by gender (p=0.0304). No significant gender differences were found in age, hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes, prior stroke/TIA, atrial fibrillation, stroke etiology, localization, reperfusion treatments, or functional outcomes (NIHSS and mRS at discharge, 3 months, and 1 year; all p>0.05). Conclusions Among young stroke patients, gender differences were prominent in modifiable risk factors (smoking, alcohol) and specific comorbidities (cancer, contraceptive use), but not in acute stroke severity, treatment, or mid-term functional recovery. These findings highlight gender-specific risk profiles without corresponding disparities in neurological outcome in this study. Conflict of interest Miriam Cortés Rubiales: nothing to dislose