Abstract T P137: Temporal Trends in Hospitalization for Ischemic Stroke in the United States, 2000-2010

Abstract

Background: Recent population-based studies have revealed declining ischemic stroke hospitalization rates in the US, particularly among whites, but no study has assessed recent nationwide trends in race/ethnic-, age- and sex-specific stroke hospitalization rates in the US. Aims: To assess temporal trends in race/ethnic-, age-, and sex-specific rates of hospitalization for ischemic stroke in the US. Methods: Temporal trends in hospitalization for ischemic stroke (ICD-9 codes 433.x1, 434, 436) from 2000 to 2010 were assessed among adults ≥25 years using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample. Age-, sex-, and race/ethnic-specific stroke hospitalization rates were calculated using the weighted number of hospitalizations as the numerator and the US civilian population as the denominator. Age-adjusted rates were standardized to the 2000 US Census population. Results: From 2000 to 2010, age-adjusted stroke hospitalization rates decreased from 169 to 138 per 100,000 (overall rate reduction 18.3%). The decline in stroke hospitalizations was driven by the ≥65 age group, with the sharpest decline among 65-84 year olds (Figure). Sex-specific rates showed higher age-adjusted rates in women, with a steeper reduction in women than in men (from 228 to 180 vs. 183 to 157 per 100,000). Race/ethnic-specific trends revealed that hospitalizations decreased for whites and Hispanics but increased for blacks (from 144 to 193 per 100,000 in black men and from 191 to 211 per 100,000 in black women). Discussion: Although overall stroke hospitalizations have decreased in the US, the reduction has been more pronounced among older individuals, whites and Hispanics. Renewed efforts at targeting risk factor control among blacks and middle-aged individuals may be warranted. Figure 1.