Stroke Mortality in Adults Aged 20-59 Years in Chile, 2002-2021: An Epidemiological Study

Stroke is a major cause of death and disability in Chile and worldwide. Although its greatest burden affects older adults, its impact on individuals of working age is concerning. In Chile, the Explicit Health Guarantees (GES) program has improved access to stroke diagnosis and treatment; however, differences in mortality by sex, age, and region persist.

To describe the magnitude, temporal trends (2002-2021), and regional distribution of stroke mortality among Chilean adults aged 20-59 years.

An ecological, observational, and analytical study based on records of stroke-related deaths (ICD-10: I60-I69) from the Department of Health Statistics and Information (DEIS) and population projections from the National Statistics Institute (INE) for the period 2002-2021. Mortality rates were calculated by sex, age decade, and region. Temporal trends were assessed using Prais-Winsten regression, and spatial distribution was assessed using mortality rate ratios (MRR) by five-year periods.

Between 2002 and 2021, 19,438 deaths from stroke were recorded among adults aged 20-59 years, 57.6% of which occurred in men. Age-specific mortality rates increased with age and were higher in men. However, a significant reduction in mortality was observed, particularly in individuals aged 40-59 years. Regional disparities were evident, with mortality rate ratios between two and three times higher in the country's extreme regions compared with the national average Conclusions: From 2002 to 2021, stroke mortality among Chilean adults aged 20-59 years showed a steady decline, although regional inequalities persisted. Enhanced surveillance, prevention, and timely access to diagnosis and treatment are recommended in regions showing disproportionately high mortality.