Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is currently the fourth
leading cause of death in the world and its incidence and prevalence is
on the rise. It is evident that COPD is linked to cardiovascular
disease. In the last years, several studies demonstrated that COPD may
also be a risk factor for stroke, another major cause of death
worldwide.
Taking in consideration that COPD has multiple comorbidities
it is hard to say whether COPD is an independent risk factor for stroke
or it is due to confounding effect. This review is aimed to discuss
current data on COPD and stroke, potential links, therapy, and
prevention. Current data suggest that COPD may increase the risk of
hemorrhagic stroke. The incidence of other stroke subtypes may also be
increased in COPD or may be due to confounding effect. However, COPD
patients who have stroke are at risk for pulmonary and extrapulmonary
complications. We conclude that more studies are needed to further
clarify the links between COPD and stroke. The management of COPD as
well as the use of prevention therapy is essential to decrease the risk
for stroke and should be at special attention in pulmonary medicine and
neurology.
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