Post-stroke Cognitive Impairment and Malnutrition in the Elderly (PCIME): study design and protocol

Stroke and dementia are burdensome non communicable diseases but preventable. A joint prevention of stroke and dementia requires a comprehensive approach by controlling common risk factors. Little is known about the role of malnutrition in post-stroke cognitive impairments. The main aim of this study is to evaluate the presence of cognitive impairment after stroke and its association with malnutrition. Post-stroke Cognitive Impairment and Malnutrition in the Elderly (PCIME) is a prospective hospital-based cohort study, started on January 2nd, 2018 at Ziaeian Hospital, a referral center for elderly, Tehran, Iran, Middle East. We have used a battery of neuropsychiatric tests, including the Montreal Cognitive Assessment and Mini-Mental State Examination. We have assessed malnutrition using the Mini Nutritional Assessment and Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index. PCIME will enable us to assess the role of malnutrition in development of post stroke dementia. This study will help clinicians and researchers develop preventive measures to reduce the burden of stroke and dementia.