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Lookup NU author(s): Professor Richard Walker, Professor Nigel Unwin
Background. This study aimed to identify correlates of case fatality within an incident stroke population in rural Tanzania. Methods. Stroke patients, identified by the Tanzanian Stroke Incidence Project, underwent a full examination and assessment around the time of incident stroke. Records were made of demographic data, blood pressure, pulse rate and rhythm, physical function (Barthel index), neurological status (communication, swallowing, vision, muscle activity, sensation), echocardiogram, chest X-ray and computed tomography (CT) head scan. Cases were followed up over the next 3 - 6 years. Results. In 130 incident cases included in this study, speech, language and swallowing problems, reduced muscle power, and reduced physical function were all significantly correlated with case fatality at 28 days and 3 years. Age was significantly correlated with case fatality at 3 years, but not at 28 days post-stroke. Smoking history was the only significant correlate of case fatality at 28 days that pre-dated the incident stroke. All other significant correlates were measures of neurological recovery from stroke. Conclusions. This is the first published study of the correlates of post-stroke case fatality in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) from an incident stroke population. Case fatality was correlated with the various motor impairments resulting from the incident stroke. Improving post-stroke care may help to reduce stroke case fatality in SSA. S Afr Med J 2013;103(2):107-112. DOI:10.7196/SAMJ.5793
Author(s): Walker RW, Jusabani A, Aris E, Gray WK, Mugusi F, Swai M, Alberti KG, Unwin N
Publication type: Article
Publication status: Published
Journal: SAMJ South African Medical Journal
Year: 2013
Volume: 103
Issue: 2
Pages: 107-112
Print publication date: 01/02/2013
Date deposited: 14/05/2013
ISSN (print): 0256-9574
ISSN (electronic): 2078-5135
Publisher: Health and Medical Publishing Group
URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.7196/SAMJ.5793
DOI: 10.7196/SAMJ.5793
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