Psychosocial stress and risk of first-ever stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
BMC NeurolSep 23, 2026 (epub)
Mostafa A Khalifa, Diaaeldin Hassanein, Abd Alrahman I Alsabbagh et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the link between psychosocial stress and the risk of first-ever stroke in a stroke-free population, analyzing 84 studies with over 4 million participants. The findings indicate that psychological stress is associated with a 27% increased risk of stroke (HR 1.27), while vocational stressors show a 32% increase (HR 1.32).
Key findings
- Psychological stress is linked to a 27% increased risk of first-ever stroke (HR 1.27).
- Vocational stressors are associated with a 32% increased risk of stroke (HR 1.32).
- Behavioral stress-related traits show the largest effect estimate with HR 1.51, though based on limited studies.
- The association with stroke risk was significant in men (HR 1.19) but not in women (HR 0.86).
Why it matters
Understanding the relationship between psychosocial stress and stroke risk can help clinicians identify modifiable risk factors in patients, potentially guiding preventive strategies and interventions to reduce stroke incidence.