文摘
Background Development of a long-term stroke care plan requires serial assessment of long-term patient function and consideration of caregiver mood. However, to date, few comprehensive cohort studies have included both stroke patients and caregivers. Methods/Design KOSCO is a large, multi-centre prospective cohort study for all acute first-ever stroke patients admitted to participating hospitals in nine distinct areas of Korea. This study is designed as a 10-year, longitudinal follow-up investigating the residual disabilities, activity limitations, and quality of life issues arising in patients suffering from first-ever stroke. The main objectives of this study are to identify the factors that influence residual disability and long-term quality of life. The secondary objectives of this study are to determine the risk of mortality and recurrent vascular events in patients with acute first-ever stroke. We will investigate longitudinal health behaviors and patterns of healthcare utilization, including stroke rehabilitation care. We will also investigate the long-term health status, mood, and quality of life in stroke patient caregivers. In addition, we will identify baseline and ongoing characteristics that are associated with our secondary outcomes. Discussion KOSCO is a prospective, multi-centre, 10-year longitudinal follow-up study investigating the residual disabilities, activity limitations, and quality of life issues arising in patients suffering from first-ever stroke.