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Prevalence of stroke in Kinmen
J L Fuh1, S J Wang, E B Larson
1Neurological Institute, Veterans General Hospital-Taipei, Taiwan.
Stroke
|August 1, 1996
Summary
Stroke prevalence in rural Taiwan is moderately high, affecting 24.5 per 1000 adults over 50. Key risk factors include hypertension and diabetes, but most survivors maintain independence.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Neurology
- Public Health
Background:
- Stroke is a leading cause of mortality in Taiwan.
- Understanding stroke in rural Chinese populations is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of stroke.
- To identify associated risk factors.
- To assess functional outcomes in survivors within a rural Chinese population.
Main Methods:
- A door-to-door survey was conducted in Kinmen Island.
- Target population: 5061 residents aged 50 years and older.
- Standardized neurological examination and questionnaire administered to 3915 participants.
Main Results:
- Identified 96 cases of completed stroke.
- Stroke prevalence in those aged 50+ was 24.5 per 1000.
- Significant risk factors: hypertension, diabetes mellitus, irregular heartbeats.
- 59% of survivors were independent in daily activities; 71% could walk independently.
Conclusions:
- Taiwan exhibits a moderately high stroke prevalence.
- Identified stroke risk factors are consistent with those in developed countries.
- Majority of stroke survivors in this population achieve functional independence.