Gender Differences in Ischemic and Hemorrhagic Stroke Patients: Data from Ludhiana Population-Based Urban Stroke Registry

Background: Stroke affects older women and is associated with greater severity in women than in men. Stroke characteristics differ between high- and low-and-middle-income countries. Hence, the aim of this study was to explore if these gender differences hold true for Ludhiana population-based stroke registry. Materials and Methods: This study was a part of the Ludhiana Urban population-based Stroke Registry. Data were collected using the WHO STEPS method. All patients aged ≥18 years of age, who developed stroke (ischemic or hemorrhagic) between March 26, 2011 and March 25, 2013, were included. Data on demographic details, clinical features, and risk factors were collected. Outcome was assessed at 28 days using the modified Rankin Scale. The statistical analyses performed included descriptive statistics, Chi square test, Fischer’s exact test, and the independent t -test. Results: A total of 2948 were included in the final analysis, of whom 1811 (61.4%) were men. Women were older (≥75 years) [283 (16%) vs. 234 (21%), P = 0.001], were more illiterate [132 (13%) vs. 195 (32%), P < 0.0001], and had more ischemic strokes [1134 (68%) vs. 756 (73%), P < 0.01], hypertension [907 (79%) vs. 599 (84%), P = 0.003], hyperlipidemia [194 (17%) vs. 153 (23%), P = 0.008], and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) [26 (2%) vs. 32 (5%), P = 0.005]. Conclusion: Stroke was more common among men. However, gender differences were noted. Women were older and had a higher incidence of ischemic stroke, hypertension, RHD, and hyperlipidemia. Both men and women had comparable short-term outcomes.