Date of Conferral

2021

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Health

Advisor

Mary Lou Gutierrez

Abstract

Stroke is a significant public health issue that impacts the health of Hispanic adults. Understanding the multiple risk factors of stroke is an essential strategy to control the disease among this population. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between modifiable risk factors and stroke among Hispanics. The public health prevention framework guided this study. The research questions were designed to determine whether an association exists between modifiable risk factors for stroke among Hispanics. A quantitative, cross-sectional research design was used to conduct secondary analysis of the pooled 2017–2019 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System annual surveys. The sample of 111,429 participants in this study was weighted to represent the national sample of Hispanic adults aged 18 years and older. Unadjusted bivariate models indicate that both obesity and diabetes have a significant association with the diagnosis of stroke. An adjusted logistic regression indicated that the odds of a diagnosis of stroke (outcome) had a statistically significant association with obesity and diabetes (exposure) after controlling for confounding factors, alcohol consumption, smoking, and education among Hispanics. The adjusted logistic regression model suggests that among Hispanics, those with diabetes are 8 times more likely to be diagnosed with stroke (OR = 7.939, 99% CI [7.875, 8.003], p < .001). The findings of this study may provide evidence for public health professionals to propose interventions that educate Hispanics on diabetes and other risk factors for stroke. Stroke prevention programs can consider the demographic characteristics, socioeconomic status, and cultural norms and values that can impact the disease management for each individual.

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