Stroke in women: experience in a developing country

BackgroundSeveral 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.MethodsThis 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.ResultsData 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.ConclusionDespite 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.

Automated summary

This study investigates the relationship between stroke and gender in a developing country. The results indicate that men have a higher incidence of stroke compared to women. Women who had a stroke were older and had a higher prevalence of hypertension and atrial fibrillation, as well as more severe strokes and worse outcomes. However, there was no significant difference in the promptness or frequency of revascularization therapy between genders.