The Particulars: Previously published studies have indicated that nearly one-third of stroke patients develop depression. Research is limited on the association between mortality and depression among stroke patients.

Data Breakdown: After adjusting for multiple factors, a study found that early mortality was three times higher for stroke patients with depression when compared with those who did not have a stroke or depression. Stroke-related mortality was four times higher among stroke patients with depression when compared with those who had not had a stroke or depression.

Take Home Pearl: Stroke patients with depression appear to be at increased risk of stroke-related mortality when compared with patients who have not had a stroke or depression.