What are the risk factors for stroke associated with alcohol and drug use?
Alcohol and drug use disorders are associated with an increased risk of stroke. The 2004 US Preventive Services Task Force update recommends established screening and counseling strategies for alcohol use disorders, and long-term treatment strategies such as medication, psychological counseling, and community-based programs for drug use disorders. Amphetamine-type stimulants have been associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke, and powder/paste and crack cocaine use have been associated with an increased likelihood of ischemic and stroke (type unspecified). Khat use is also associated with an increased risk of stroke. Acute ischemic stroke hospitalization is higher among cannabis users, and frequent cannabis users (>10 d/ mo) have an adjusted odds ratio (OR) of 2.45 (95% CI, 1.31 4.60) of stroke compared with non-users.