An Inquiry into the Demographic and Health-related Factors associated with the Incidence of Stroke in Jamaica

Abstract

Introduction: Stroke is a global public health phenomenon that is among the top five leading causes of death; 12 million people experience one annually, 6.5 million people die because of a stroke annually, and 25% of people will have a stroke after their 25th birthday. However, the stroke statistics for Jamaica were estimated to be 13.62% (n=2,479 Jamaicans) of total deaths in 2018. Yet, no study has emerged that has examined the demographic and health factors associated with the incidence of stroke in Jamaica.

Objective: This study evaluates the demographic and health factors associated with stroke, enabling medical professionals to understand high-risk factors better and implement preventative care strategies in Jamaica-filling a significant gap in public health knowledge.

Methods and Materials: This research employed an explanatory cross-sectional design that examined Jamaican demographics, health, and stroke rates. Secondary data from the Office of the Consultant Neurologist (OCN) from 2000-2023 was integrated into the Social Ecological Model (SEM). The study included 291 stroke patients aged 18 and older, excluding those under 18 and those with other health issues. A multivariate logistic regression was used to address the research questions.

Findings: Tertiary education was associated with a 5% higher risk of stroke (OR = 1.05) than secondary education (CI [0.402, 2.75]). Renal disease (p = 0.055) and employment status was not predictors of stroke (p = 0.075). Employed individuals had a 3.2% increase in the likelihood of getting a stroke compared to their unemployed counterparts. Alcohol consumption did not significantly predict stroke occurrence (p = 0.070), nor did hypertension significantly predict stroke (p = .270). Gender did not predict stroke, but age was a predictor. Future research should uncover demographic and health aspects in other emerging nations.

Conclusion: The findings can help to drive sustainable positive social change by informing stroke policies, prevention, and quality of life programs in Jamaica, resulting in positive social change.