| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3041212 | Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery | 2010 | 4 Pages |
ObjectiveThis prospective study will evaluate the socioeconomic factors responsible for the discontinuation of secondary preventive treatment of stroke in India and its outcome.Designs methodsA total of 1212 stroke patients (male = 708, mean age 58 ± 2 years; female = 504, mean age 56 ± 2 years; intra-cerebral haemorrhage = 496; ischaemic = 716) were enrolled in the stroke clinic for secondary preventive treatment from 1st January 2006 to 1st January 2008 and were followed up at 4–6-week intervals. Among them, 512 patients were grouped as being below the poverty line. Discontinuation of treatment for more than 2 weeks by a patient placed that patient in a group labelled discontinued. Outcomes of discontinuation of secondary preventive treatment were evaluated with respect to (1) control of risk factors, (2) recurrence of stroke, and (3) mortality rate. Reasons for the discontinuation were comparatively analysed with respect to awareness, education, economy, distance, and daily cost of treatment, types of stroke and disability status.Results and analysisDuring the study period of 2 years, the following was observed: 420 patients (34.65%) discontinued secondary preventive treatment; 112 patients (9.24%) dropped out; 680 patients (56.10%) continued. Chi-square and null hypothesis procedures were applied for statistical analysis. Distance, economy, poor awareness on stroke, low educational level, types of stroke, cost of treatment and disability status all were significant factors in the discontinuation of treatment. The discontinued group had poor control of risk factors, higher recurrence of both types of stroke and higher mortality.ConclusionsDiscontinuation of secondary preventive treatment due to diverse socioeconomic factors results in greater recurrence and disabilities among stroke survivors, and these findings should be reported to national and international planning authorities to strengthen preventive measures to achieve better outcomes and reductions of the stroke burden globally.
