Abstract TP236: Racial Disparities in Young Patients With Ischemic Stroke in Central Connecticut

Abstract

Introduction: A rising prevalence of stroke in young patients was noticed in recent years. Studies have reported racial disparities in young stroke patients and less desired outcomes of minorities. The healthcare system located in central Connecticut provides stroke care for diverse populations allowing investigations of racial disparities in young stroke population. This study aimed to identify potentially modifiable factors for better stroke treatment and prevention in minority populations. Methods: We retrospectively identified young patients (aged 18-55 years) who were admitted with ischemic stroke from 01/2014 to 12/2022. Race groups were characterized as non-Hispanic White (White), non-Hispanic Black (Black), and Hispanic. Socioeconomic status, risk factors, stroke etiology, acute interventions and short-term outcomes were accessed. Comparisons among racial groups were tested with Chi-square and Wilcoxon rank sum tests as appropriate. Results: A total of 915 patients were identified, the median age was 49, 58.8% were male, and 60.4% White, 21.6% Black, 17.9% Hispanic. White lived in households with a higher median income than Hispanic and Black (p<0.001). Compared to White, black and Hispanic had higher rate of Diabetes, Hypertension and prior stroke (p<0.001). The rates of other risk factors (hyperlipidemia, smoking, illicit drug use, chronic heart failure, coronary artery disease, and atrial fibrillation) did not vary by race. The rates of stroke etiologies (large vessel disease, cardioembolic stroke, cryptogenic stroke and other determined etiology) were similar among racial groups, yet the trend showed a higher rate of dissection stroke in White (White 7.9 % vs. Black 3.9% and Hispanic 3.8%) and a higher rate of small vessel disease stroke in Black and Hispanic (White 7.9 % vs. Black 17.3% vs. Hispanic 12.4%). Acute intervention (IV tPA, thrombectomy) and short-term outcomes (mRS and disposition at discharge) were similar among groups. Conclusions: This study highlighted a higher prevalence of hypertension and diabetes may correlate with a high rate of small vessel disease in Black and Hispanic young stroke patients. A tailored interventions of hypertension and diabetes for stroke prevention are urged in minorities.