The Impact of Socioeconomic Status on Recurrent Ischemic Stroke in Indian Population

Abstract

Introduction: Socioeconomic disparities present a significant risk for both first and recurrent ischemic stroke.

Objective: We conducted a study to investigate how socioeconomic status (SES) influences recurrent ischemic stroke.

Materials And Methods: We enrolled 354 patients over 40 years of age, who had experienced two or more clinico-radiologically confirmed ischemic strokes. Our study was conducted in the neurology department at Shri Ram Murti Smarak Institute of Medical Sciences, Bareilly, from April 2019 to March 2025.

Results: Out of 354 patients, 67.51% (n=239) were men and 32.49% (n=115) were women. The mean age of patients with recurrent stroke was 61.77 years. Hypertension was the leading risk factor, identified in 68.10% (n=241), with the highest frequency in the Class-IV socioeconomic population. Diabetes mellitus was another risk factor, which was observed in 38.70% (n=137), predominantly in the Class-IV socioeconomic population. Obesity (23.45%; n=83), dyslipidemia (8.19%; n=29) and atrial fibrillation (3.67%; n=13) were also dominant in lower socioeconomic class. Overall tobacco (55.37%; n=196) and alcohol (29.66%; n=116) consumption were more prevalent in lower socioeconomic status patients. We found 46.89% (n=176) of patients adhered to their treatment regimen.

Conclusion: Our findings reveal a positive correlation between lower socioeconomic status and higher recurrence of ischemic stroke, especially in patients with higher prevalence of risk factors, alcohol and tobacco consumption, and poor adherence to treatment. Our study highlights the necessity and importance of public health programs and awareness along with affordable and accessible healthcare for this susceptible population.