Smokers have a harder time solving problems and making decisions after having a stroke than non-smokers, according to a study which was presented at the Canadian Stroke Congress.

Using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) tool, the researchers examined the mental capabilities of 76 patients with the average age of 67.5 – 12 of them were smokers.

The MoCA is a test in which patients answer questions regarding memory and problem solving and receive a score out of 30. The test was given to patients from stroke facilities in Hamilton, Barrie and Oshawa. The experts found smokers to have an average score of 22 out of 30, two points less than the non-smokers’ average score of 24. An August 2012 study, stated that smoking after stroke increased the risk of death three-fold.

According to Gail MacKenzie, a clinical nurse specialist from Hamilton General Hospital, the patients who had quit smoking before the study scored the same as the non-smokers.

MacKenzie commented:

“This research emphasizes the importance of smoking cessation for people with stroke of TIA (transient ischemic attack, or a mini stroke). Smoking is a risk factor for cognitive impairment for people who continue to smoke and this ability to problem-solve and make decisions has implications for patients’ health and self-management of care.”

The report states that low scores on the MoCA test can be a red flag for difficulties with visual-spatial skills, problem-solving, language, attention, and memory.

Close to 37,000 Canadians die every year from some type of tobacco use – cardiovascular disease accounts for nearly one-third of these fatalities.

Smoking increases plaque build up in the arteries, lowers oxygen levels in the blood, increases blood pressure, makes the heart work more vigorously, and doubles the chance of ischemic stroke.

When an individual quits smoking, they lower their risk of heart disease and stroke, and in 18 months, their risks are about equal to those of people who have never smoked.

Ian Joiner, the director of stroke for the Heart and Stroke Foundation, said: “Not only does it improve the length and quality of your life – but also the lives of those around you.” He believes this study reiterates the significance of prevention programs, tobacco-control, and education about smoking.

Congress Co-Chair Mark Bayley, said: “There needs to be more effort to help people stop smoking to protect their brain both from stroke and from mental decline after stroke.”

Written by Christine Kearney