Minor thalassemia as a protective factor against cerebrovascular accidents.

Hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and coronary artery disease are among the risk factors of cerebrovascular accidents. After age, hypertension is the most powerful stroke risk factor. Abnormalities of serum lipids are regarded as risk factors for cerebrovascular accidents. A significant reduction in stroke risk among persons treated with cholesterol-reducing medicines known as statins are reported. Stroke risk nearly doubles in those with antecedent coronary artery disease. Moreover, polycythemia and high hematocrit levels are considered to be potential stroke risk factors. Minor thalassemia is associated with decreased prevalence of arterial hypertension and myocardial infarction (the second effect observed only in males.) Total cholesterol and LDL levels are lower in minor thalassemics, as is the blood viscosity. Therefore, it could be hypothesized that minor thalassemia could afford some protection against cerebrovascular accidents.