SOCIO-DEMOGRAPHIC FACTORS OF STROKE PATIENTS FOR DELAYING IN HOSPITAL ARRIVAL.

JPUMHS;2024:14:01,64-69. http://doi.org/10.46536/jpumhs/2024/14.01.496

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Stroke has a major impact on morbidity, mortality and on economics, particularly of
underdeveloped countries. The pre-hospital delays i.e. delay before the patient reaches the hospital and
thrombolytic treatment are the two main factors affecting the stoke patients morbidity and mortality. The objective
of this study was to determine the sociodemographic factor associated with delayed hospital arrival of such
patients. MATERIAL & METHODS: This cross sectional study on 200 diagnosed patients of stroke with both
genders was conducted in Neurology OPD and Medical wards of PMC hospital Nawabshah. The information
regarding the socio-demographic factors involved in delayed hospital arrival of these stroke patients were
documented in the predesigned Questionnaire and statistical analysis was done. RESULTS: The mean age of the
participants was 58.9 years and stroke was three times more common im males as compared to females. Majority
of the participants were belonging to lower class 157 (78.5%) and 74.5% participants were Illiterate. Out of total
200 patients 67% were hypertensive and approximately 30% patients had history of diabetes. History of Ischemic
Heart Disease found in 32(16%) patients. 161(80.5%) participants 0ut of total 200 reached to the hospital after 6
hours being diagnosed or suspected. Older age of patients, marital status, ethnicity, occupation, failure to recognize
stroke symptoms and decision taken for shifting the patients to hospital were the factors which were found in our
study regarding delayed hospital arrival of stroke patients. CONCLUSION: Our study concluded that most of
the factors which lead to delay in hospital presentation were modifiable and interventions by the concerned health
authorities may have a positive effect on the time taken to report to the hospital.