Stroke: A Temporal Trend Analysis in Maranhão over the Past Decade

Karem Stephany Assunção Folgado, Elisa Maira Nunes de Almeida, Rossana Marques

Abstract

Stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide, and approximately 50% of survivors live with chronic disabilities. This study aimed to analyze the temporal trend of mortality and hospitalization rates due to stroke in Maranhão, Brazil, between 2014 and 2023. Data were collected from the Hospital Information System regarding hospitalizations and deaths caused by stroke, stratified by sex, skin color, and age group. Temporal trends were analyzed using Prais-Winsten regression, and Annual Percent Changes (APCs) were calculated by sex and age group. A total of 46,519 hospitalizations and 7,271 deaths were recorded, with higher prevalence among men and the elderly. Individuals with brown skin were the most affected, but Indigenous people showed the highest hospital mortality rate. Population mortality showed an increasing trend in both sexes (p=0.002), with a notable rise in deaths among younger individuals. The findings indicate a growing public health concern and highlight the need for targeted prevention and intervention strategies to address stroke-related outcomes in the region.

Published
2025-09-12