This Trend Is Also Associated With a Higher Likelihood of Not Receiving Timely Care.
The study, analysing 30 years of stroke incidents in South London, finds that while stroke incidence fell by 34% between 1995-99 and 2010-14, it rose by 13% between 2020 and 2024. Factors contributing to this disparity include higher rates of uncontrolled high blood pressure and diabetes in black communities, as well as broader social and economic circumstances.
The research also highlights a lack of timely follow — up care for stroke survivors from black African backgrounds, with these individuals experiencing strokes about 10 to 12 years earlier than their white counterparts. 🔗 Original Headline: Black people in England twice as likely to suffer stroke as white counterparts 📝 Final Headline: Disproportionate Stroke Risk and Inadequate Care for Black Communities in England 📝 Final Body: Datedline: LONDON, England – A comprehensive study by King’s College London has uncovered a stark disparity in stroke incidence and care among black communities in England, revealing that individuals from these backgrounds are twice as likely to suffer from strokes compared to their white counterparts.
The analysis, which spanned 30 years of stroke incidents in the South London Stroke Register, also found that those from black African and Caribbean backgrounds are significantly less likely to receive timely medical intervention.
The study’s findings underscore the urgency of addressing health inequalities and improving access to quality healthcare. Despite a 34% decline in stroke incidence between 1995-99 and 2010-14, a concerning 13% increase was observed between 2020 and 2024. This rise, particularly among black populations, is attributed to higher rates of hypertension and diabetes, as well as broader socio-economic factors.
Author Dr. Camila Pantoja-Ruiz of King’s College London suggested that the COVID-19 pandemic may have exacerbated these disparities, reducing access to primary care and blood pressure monitoring, particularly affecting black and deprived communities.
The research also highlights a critical gap in follow — up care for stroke survivors from black African backgrounds, who are 34% less likely to receive National Health Service (NHS) follow-up care post-stroke. This lack of timely care may contribute to more severe health outcomes and a higher risk of future strokes.
The Stroke Association’s director of policy, Maeva May, emphasized the need for targeted interventions and increased awareness, noting that the social and economic circumstances, including poor housing, shape health long before a stroke occurs. She called for equal support and resources, ensuring that prevention strategies reach all communities.
The findings of the King’s College London study echo the concerns raised by the Black & Asian Stroke Survivors (BASS) Project, which launched in 2021 to address the disproportionate impact of stroke on Black and South Asian communities in the UK.
The project’s emphasis on culturally relevant support and awareness within these communities is crucial in reducing health disparities.
In conclusion, the study’s findings serve as a call to action for healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities to collaborate in addressing the health disparities faced by black communities in England. By understanding and addressing the complex interplay of socio-economic, cultural, and healthcare factors, it is possible to improve health outcomes and bridge the gap in stroke care and outcomes.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: The guardian
Source: Tobi Thomas Health and inequalities correspondent
