Health Equity and Actionable Disparities in Stroke: 2022 Update

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Public Health
• Health Equity Research

Background:

• Significant disparities exist in stroke incidence, prevalence, care, and outcomes.
• The Health Equity and Actionable Disparities in Stroke (HEADS-UP) symposium focused on clinical trials for stroke inequities.
• The Edgar J. Kenton III award recognized research addressing stroke disparities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present findings from the 2022 HEADS-UP symposium focused on clinical trials for stroke inequities.
• To outline key considerations for future stroke inequities research.
• To review interventions aimed at improving stroke care for historically marginalized populations.

Main Methods:

• Review of manuscripts presented at the 2022 HEADS-UP symposium.
• Analysis of research on care transition interventions, telehealth trials, and polypill programs for stroke.
• Synthesis of evidence on addressing stroke disparities in diverse populations.

Main Results:

• Ten key considerations for stroke inequities research were detailed.
• Barriers in stroke care transitions for disenfranchised populations were highlighted, emphasizing co-design.
• Telehealth interventions show potential to address inequities if digital divides are managed.
• Polypill strategies show promise for stroke prevention in low- and middle-income countries.

Conclusions:

• Future stroke inequities research should be guided by evidence-based considerations.
• Interventions like improved care transitions, equitable telehealth implementation, and polypill programs are crucial.
• Addressing global stroke disparities requires tailored, patient-centered, and implementable strategies.