Addressing stroke risk factors in Black and White Americans: Findings from the national health and nutrition examination survey, 2009-2010

Abstract

Objectives: Recurrent stroke affects 5%-15% of stroke survivors, is higher among Blacks, and preventable with secondary stroke prevention medications. Our study aimed to examine racial differences in risk factors being addressed (defined as either on active treatment or within guideline levels) among stroke survivors and those at risk for stroke. Methods: A cross-sectional study using NHANES 2009-2010 standardized interviews of Whites and Blacks aged ≥18 years. Risk factors were defined as being addressed if: 1) for hypertension, SBP <140, DBP <90 (SBP<130, DBP<80 for diabetics) or using BP-lowering medications; 2) for current smoking, using cessation medications; and 3) for hyperlipidemia, LDL<100 (LDL<70 for stroke survivors) or using lipid-lowering medications. Participants were stratified by stroke history. Prevalence of addressed risk factors was compared by race. Results: Among 4005 participants (mean age 48, 52% women, 15% Black), 4% reported a history of stroke. Among stroke survivors, there were no statistically significant differences in Blacks and Whites having their hypertension or hyperlipidemia addressed. Among stroke naïve participants, the prevalence of addressed hypertension (P