The Effect of Rurality and Gender on Stroke Awareness of Adults in West Virginia

Abstract

Rurality, characterized with limited access to emergency stroke care, adds another risk factor to victims of stroke. Although there is a growing literature on gender differences, very little is known about how these gender differences intersect with rurality. A random sample of 2,000 adults were invited to participate (n=1,114) in a mail survey in West Virginia. The population is split into four groups: urban men, urban women, rural men and rural women. The findings suggest that rural older women face higher risks of stroke than other groups. The study recommends that this group be targeted by campaigns to raise stroke awareness.