Racial differences in survival post cerebral infarction among the elderly
J Bian1, E Z Oddone, G P Samsa
1Department of Health Policy and Administration, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Durham, 27705, USA.
Neurology
|January 29, 2003
Summary
African American elderly patients experienced a 6% higher mortality rate after cerebral infarction compared to white patients. Survival probabilities were notably lower for African Americans aged 65-74.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Public Health
- Neurology
Background:
- Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability, particularly among the elderly.
- Racial disparities in healthcare outcomes are a significant concern in the United States.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare post-stroke survival rates between African American and white patients aged 65 and older.
- To identify potential racial differences in outcomes following cerebral infarction.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of a national Medicare sample of patients hospitalized with cerebral infarction in 1991.
- Follow-up of a biracial cohort for up to 3 years.
- Utilized Cox regression modeling for covariate adjustment.
Main Results:
- Included 47,045 patients (5,324 African Americans).
- African American patients showed a 6% higher likelihood of death post-cerebral infarction compared to white patients.
- African Americans aged 65-74 had significantly lower 3-year survival rates (15-20%) than their white counterparts.
Conclusions:
- Evidence suggests racial disparities in elderly survival post-cerebral infarction.
- Observed differences were less pronounced than those reported for stroke incidence and mortality.
- Further research with detailed clinical data is recommended, especially for the 65-74 age group.
