EFFECT OF SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS ON RISK OF STROKE

Abstract

Objectives: To studythe effects of socioeconomic status on risk of stroke in
patients admitted to tertiary care hospitals.
Methodology: This was a case control study done in tertiary care hospitals of
Peshawar. We recruited 100 cases and 200 controls - two controls for every
case. Cases were patients of any age and both sexes admitted with first ever
stroke and controls were selected from hospital and community. We conducted a
face to face interview using a structured questionnaire. Demographics features
included age, gender, socioeconomic status were recorded. Anthropometric
measurements were noted.
Results:Mean age of cases was 66.9±3.5 years and controls 65.1±14.5 years.
Advanced age was found to be significantly associated with risk of stroke
(p<0.01). Males were 70 % in cases and 56% in control groups (p<.019). Being
a male was significantly associated with risk of stroke. Socioeconomic status
was divided into three groups.In the lowest income group (Rs.1000- 20,000)
83% were cases and 68% were the control. Low Socioeconomic status was
significantly associated with risk of stroke (p<0.02). Education was categorized
into three groups. The group with lowest level of education(0-5 grade) had 72%
cases and 58%controls. Education was significantly associated with risk of
stroke (p<0.010). Among cases 66% belonged to rural areas and among
controls 56% in controls. However this was not significantly associated with risk
of stroke (p<0.096) CI 95%.
Conclusion: This case control study shows that advanced age, male gender, low
socioeconomic status and low education level are significantly associated with
risk of stroke.