Stroke in rural South Africa--contributing to the little known about a big problem

S Afr Med J. 1999 Jan;89(1):63-5.

Abstract

Objectives: To describe the extent of mortality from cerebrovascular accident (CVA) in a rural South African population.

Design: Annual demographic and health surveillance with verbal autopsy of all deaths, 1992-1995.

Outcome measures: Stroke mortality rate by age and sex.

Results: Stroke mortality increased with age and is higher in men than women over age 35. Proportionate mortality ratio from CVA: 10.3% of deaths in the 35-64-year age group.

Conclusion: Cerebrovascular disease is an important cause of death in South Africa's rural north-east. Community-based research is needed to inform policy and practice.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Autopsy / methods
  • Cerebrovascular Disorders / mortality*
  • Data Interpretation, Statistical
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Population Surveillance* / methods
  • Prospective Studies
  • Rural Health*
  • South Africa / epidemiology
  • Surveys and Questionnaires