ABSTRACT NUMBER: ESOC2026YS221 ANALYSIS OF POST-DISCHARGE DEATHS IN A ZAMBIAN STROKE COHORT

Abstract

Abstract Background and aims Improving post-discharge outcomes for people with stroke requires an understanding of adverse events that occur during this period. We identified causes of death amongst adults with stroke in Zambia. Methods We conducted a prospective cohort study of individuals with stroke admitted to the University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka. Patients were called every three months post-discharge for one year, and vital status was ascertained. For those who died, caregivers were asked to answer questions on symptoms prior to and the circumstances of death, and the cause of death as the caregiver understood it. Of note, the adjudication of causes of death was not possible. Results Nearly two-thirds of post-discharge deaths were preventable, and three-quarters of distressing end-of-life symptoms were preventable and/or manageable with adequate medical care. A high percentage of at-home deaths potentially suggests caregivers are unaware of the warning signs of deterioration or when to seek care. Improving post-discharge services for individuals with stroke could substantially improve long-term stroke outcomes in Zambia. Conflict of interest The abstract was submitted to the American academy of neurology 2026 conference for presentation.