Stroke risk varies across populations and may be influenced by the prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors. A comparative study assessed differences in stroke-related risk factors between Native American (NA) individuals in Wisconsin and an age- and sex-matched population from the Survey of the Health of Wisconsin (SHOW). The study was published in the Journal of the American Heart Association. 

Stroke risk factor information was collected for both cohorts and included demographic characteristics, anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, smoking status, and medical history of transient ischemic attack, stroke, coronary artery disease, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus. Laboratory assessments included lipid profiles, hemoglobin A1c, and average glucose levels. In addition, Oneida NA participants underwent carotid ultrasound examinations to evaluate for the presence of atherosclerotic plaque and carotid hemodynamics.

Compared with the matched Wisconsin population, the NA cohort demonstrated significantly higher systolic and diastolic blood pressure, were taller, and had higher body mass index values (all p<0.05). Rates of diabetes were also significantly higher in the NA population. Laboratory analyses showed significant differences in total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, hemoglobin A1c, and average glucose levels (all p<0.05). Carotid ultrasound findings indicated that 81.5% of the Oneida NA participants had detectable carotid atherosclerotic plaque.

These findings demonstrate significant differences in stroke risk factors between Native American individuals and the general Wisconsin population. The results indicate a strong association between obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and atherosclerosis within the NA cohort.

Future work will evaluate the impact of lifestyle factors such as exercise, diet, and nutrition on modifying these risk factors.