Abstract Number: Esoc2026a1322 Declining Stroke Mortality in Armenia: A Decade of National Data (2015–2024)

Background and aims Stroke remains a leading cause of mortality and long-term disability worldwide. Understanding temporal trends in stroke events and outcomes is essential for evaluating healthcare system reforms. In Armenia, a National Stroke Program was launched in 2019. This study analyzes national trends in stroke events and mortality from 2015 to 2024. Methods This population-based study used data from the National Health Statistic and Research Center of the National Institute of Health of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Armenia. Stroke events and mortality (ICD-10 codes I61–I64) for 2015–2024 were analyzed. Annual population-based rates were calculated per 100,000 inhabitants using official population estimates. Temporal trends were assessed descriptively. Results Between 2015 and 2024, stroke event rates increased from 161.0 to 180.6 per 100,000 population, representing a 12.2% overall increase. A temporary decline in reported events was observed in 2020, reflecting reduced healthcare utilization during the COVID-19 period, followed by stabilization thereafter. In contrast, stroke mortality showed a consistent decline, decreasing from 37.0 per 100,000 in 2015 to 27.1 per 100,000 in 2024, corresponding to a 26.8% reduction. The most pronounced mortality decline occurred after 2019, coinciding with the implementation of the National Stroke Program. Conclusions The increase in reported stroke events coincided with the implementation of the National Stroke Program and likely reflects improved detection rather than a true increase in incidence. In contrast, the concurrent decline in stroke mortality suggests improved survival and the effectiveness of organized stroke care.