Risk factors for stroke-related pneumonia in patients with ischaemic stroke: a systematic evaluation and meta-analysis

Stroke-associated pneumonia (SAP) is a frequent and severe complication occurring within the first week after a stroke, particularly in ischemic stroke (IS) patients. SAP is primarily driven by stroke-induced immune suppression, dysphagia, and impaired consciousness, leading to aspiration and subsequent pneumonia. Its incidence ranges from 3.9 % to 12 %, making it a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in stroke survivors. Despite previous studies identifying risk factors such as age, and dysphagia, the results have often been inconsistent due to methodological differences and the inclusion of both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke patients.