Stroke in women: experience in a developing country

BMC Neurol. 2023 Jul 17;23(1):271. doi: 10.1186/s12883-023-03314-3.

Abstract

Background: Several studies have addressed gender differences in stroke. Yet, results are diverse, and research is still required in different populations. So, this study investigates variation in stroke according to gender in a developing country.

Methods: This is a registry-based, retrospective observational cross-sectional study comparing men and women as regards age, risk factors, stroke severity, quality of services, and stroke outcome.

Results: Data analyzed comprised 4620 patients. It was found that men outnumbered women, while women had an older age, more prevalence of hypertension and atrial fibrillation, with severer strokes and worse outcomes. However, there was no gender difference in promptness nor frequency of administration of revascularization therapies.

Conclusion: Despite the gender difference in risk factors and stroke severity, we could not detect any significant disparity in acute stroke services provided to either gender. Among age categories in women, we identified differences in acute ischemic stroke subtypes, and acute management in favor of older age.

Keywords: Gender; Stroke; Thrombolysis; Women.

Publication types

  • Observational Study

MeSH terms

  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Developing Countries
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Ischemic Stroke* / complications
  • Male
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Risk Factors
  • Sex Factors
  • Stroke* / epidemiology
  • Stroke* / etiology
  • Stroke* / therapy