IMPACT OF SEX AND GENDER IN STROKE IN SOUTH-AND-SOUTHEAST ASIA: A RAPID SCOPING REVIEW.

Abstract

Background: South Asia and Southeast Asia account for more than 40% of the global stroke burden, with differences in stroke risk factors, mortality, and outcomes compared to high-income countries. Socio-cultural norms compound the pre-existing biological risk differences, resulting in a disproportionate burden of stroke in women in this region. This review summarizes the sex and gender differences across the stroke care continuum in South Asia and Southeast Asia over the past 20 years.

Summary: Despite a higher incidence of stroke in men than women in South-and-Southeast Asia, women have greater stroke severity and poorer outcomes after stroke. Higher levels of pre-morbid disability and poor physical health at baseline may be contributory. There is a high prevalence of vascular risk factors such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, cardiac sources of embolism, as well as metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance, among the women in this region. Smoking is uncommon among women, however other forms of smokeless tobacco (SLT), such as tobacco leaf and betel nut chewing are more prevalent, especially in the rural areas in these countries. Women are more likely to have delayed presentations to the hospital due to untimely recognition of stroke symptoms, however, with regards to door-to-needle times or intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) rates, we found equivocal data. Wide gaps exist in stroke awareness and healthcare-seeking behaviors, with women more commonly opting for public hospitals and low-cost wards, more likely to discontinue treatment, and less likely to adhere to post-stroke rehabilitation.

Key findings: This review exposes the gender lacunae in stroke service provision across South Asia and Southeast Asia while acknowledging the many knowledge gaps in our understanding. Although the biological risk differences are non-modifiable, educational, policy, and economic measures to mitigate socio-cultural barriers are much needed in the region. Sound epidemiological data is needed from more countries to better understand these differences and bridge this gap. It is imperative to advocate and implement policies and programs for stroke care viable for women, cognizant of the gender and cost bias, as well as the interplay of social and cultural structures specific to the regions.