Neuroepidemiology
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We aimed to estimate the incidence and prevalence of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in the South East of England. The reported incidence of ALS varies between 0.44 and 3.2 per 100,000 person years. This can partly be explained by differences in design and diagnostic criteria used. There is little population data concerning England, particularly the South East. ⋯ Our incidence and prevalence rates are similar to those reported in comparable studies from other countries. This argues against the role of a specific exogenous factor in the aetiology of ALS in South-East England.
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Several studies have examined the incidence and mortality of stroke in relation to season. However, the evidence is conflicting partly due to variation in the populations (community vs. hospital-based), and in climatic conditions between studies. Moreover, they may not have been able to take into account the age, sex and stroke type of the study population. We hypothesized that the age, sex and type of stroke are major determinants of the presence or absence of winter excess in morbidity and mortality associated with stroke. ⋯ Further research should be focused on the determinants of winter excess in morbidity and mortality associated with stroke. This may subsequently reduce the morbidity and mortality by providing effective preventive strategies in future.
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While age-adjusted stroke mortality in the United States has declined consistently during the last century, trends in stroke incidence and hospitalization are less known. This study examines trends in stroke hospitalization from 1988 to 2004. ⋯ Decline in stroke hospitalizations since 1997 was observed among men and women >65 years, who suffered ischemic or ill-defined stroke. Although long-term observation is needed to confirm this finding, the decline in stroke hospitalizations after 1997 suggests treatment of hypertension may have resulted in stroke prevention.