[Socioeconomic factors and stroke]

Low socioeconomic status increases the risk of development of stroke by 67%, it also has negative influence on its severity and outcomes. The mortality among stroke survivors with low socioeconomic status is higher by 39% in comparison to those with high socioeconomic status. The link between socioeconomic status and increased risk of stroke and its poor outcomes could be explained by higher frequency of vascular risk factors, lower compliance, late presentation to hospital after a stroke onset and lower access to high-quality specialized medical care in some countries. Socioeconomic factors should be taken into account while planning stroke prevention measures.