Different strokes for different folks: epidemiology of cerebrovascular diseases amongst Chinese-Canadians residing in Toronto

Abstract

Introduction: It has been recognized in the past few decades that different ethnic groups living in Canada may have different stroke epidemiology. This presentation is focused on the stroke patterns of Chinese-Canadians living in the Toronto area. Methods: Two retrospective case-controlled studies were carried out between 1990- 2000 to study the stroke characteristics of Chinese-Canadians living in Toronto. Statistical analysis was carried out by the Institute of Clinical Evaluative Sciences. A further retrospective study was also carried out in 2011 to look at the relationship between stroke and diabetes mellitus amongst this population. Results: Chinese-Canadians were found to have 1/6 the prevalence of extracranial vascular stenosis. They have a higher frequency of intracranial vascular disease which may be due to the higher frequency of hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Higher incidence of intracranial hemorrhage was found compared to Caucasian controls which may be due to the lack of awareness and optimal treatment of their hypertension. Details of the results of these three studies will be presented. Conclusions: This is the first long term retrospective study of the stroke patterns and epidemiology for Chinese-Canadians residing in Toronto. Further prospective population-based study will be vital to study the important interactions between genetics and environment in the pathogenesis of different strokes for different folks.