Prevalence of Stroke in Spain and Its Impact on Quality of Life: Socioeconomic Inequalities and Access to Rehabilitation

TL;DR

This study examines stroke prevalence in Spain, highlighting socioeconomic disparities and the impact on quality of life, especially for women.

Contribution

The study provides new insights into stroke prevalence and rehabilitation access in Spain, emphasizing sex-related disparities.

Findings

The prevalence of strokes in Spain is estimated at 2.02%, lower than European averages.

Men experience strokes at younger ages, while women report poorer quality of life post-stroke.

Most stroke patients in Spain did not receive rehabilitation services in the last year.

Abstract

Stroke is a cerebrovascular syndrome due to a sudden interruption of blood flow to the brain that causes transient or permanent damage. Despite advances in the field of medical science, stroke is still common and continues to have a significant effect on quality of life. Objective: The objective of the study was to analyze the prevalence of strokes in Spain, considering differences in sociodemographic factors, functional limitations, and access to rehabilitation, with special attention to sex-related disparities. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted using data from the latest European Health Survey in Spain carried out between 2019 and 2020 on a total of 22,072 people. Individuals over 16 years of age with a medical diagnosis of stroke were selected for this study. Sociodemographic variables, self-perception of health, limitations in daily activities, level of physical activity, and access to rehabilitation treatment were analyzed. Descriptive measures and inferential tests were applied for statistical analysis. Results: The prevalence of strokes occurring in Spain was estimated at 2.02%, which is lower than European figures. Men tend to have strokes at younger ages (50% between 36 and 73 years), while women report a poorer quality of life after the incident. Most patients had not received rehabilitation services in the last year. Conclusions: Given the aging population, it is essential to reinforce prevention, early detection and rehabilitation therapies to improve quality of life and reduce the burden of care.

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