RESUMO
BACKGROUND: Subjects with stroke in a first-degree relative are at increased risk of atherothrombotic vascular disease. We aimed to examine atherothrombotic risk factors in such a population. METHODS: 145 subjects with a first-degree relative with stroke and 143 controls were recruited. Measurements were made of features of the insulin resistance syndrome, haemostatic and fibrinolytic risk factors, and glucose tolerance tests. RESULTS: The relatives had higher systolic blood pressure, HDL, 2-hour glucose, factor VII:C, fibrinogen, vWF and more had smoked. Differences remained in factor VII:C, systolic BP and 2-hour glucose after adjustment. CONCLUSIONS: This population demonstrates adverse thrombotic risk factors and increased FVII:C activity may contribute to increased cardiovascular risk.
