Lower Stroke Survival Rates in Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Areas

Recent research conducted by the University of Aberdeen reveals that individuals residing in economically deprived regions face a higher risk of mortality within a year after experiencing a stroke. The study, based on data from nearly 50,000 patients recorded in the Scottish Stroke Care Audit, analyzed various outcomes including overall mortality and the prescriptions for medications aimed at preventing recurrent strokes.

The findings indicate a stark disparity: patients from the most deprived neighborhoods are more likely to die within a year following their stroke compared to those from less deprived areas. Notably, these patients tend to be younger and have multiple co-existing health conditions at the time of their stroke, emphasizing the disproportionate burden faced by disadvantaged communities.

Treatment patterns also vary significantly by area. For instance, after an ischemic stroke caused by a blood clot, standard care involves prescribing aspirin-like drugs to reduce the risk of recurrence. However, patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), a heart rhythm disorder, are typically given blood thinners—anticoagulants—that are proven to better prevent subsequent strokes. The study observed that residents of deprived areas are less likely to receive these recommended blood thinners and are more often prescribed aspirin-like medications instead.

Even after adjusting for factors such as stroke severity, access to stroke care, and co-morbidities, the survival gap remains present. This suggests underlying issues like awareness of stroke risk factors and treatment benefits, as well as broader health inequalities, contribute to these differences.

The researchers emphasize the importance of tailoring public health messaging and stroke prevention strategies to address regional disparities. Dr. Kadie-Ann Sterling highlights the need to consider neighborhood factors when designing interventions, while Professor Mary Joan MacLeod advocates for a more targeted national approach that accounts for socioeconomic disparities.

Advocates from health organizations underscore the urgency of reforming healthcare delivery to ensure equitable stroke prevention and treatment for all communities. The study advocates for policy changes and proactive public health strategies to reduce these disparities and improve outcomes for vulnerable populations.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-people-poorer-areas-survival-odds.html