Epidemiology and risk factors of stroke in the Americas: a comprehensive narrative literature review

Abstract

Stroke remains a leading cause of death and disability across the Americas, disproportionately affecting low- and middle-income countries. According to the 2023 Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Study, the Americas recorded approximately 1.2 million incident strokes and 15.7 million prevalent cases. This narrative review synthesizes epidemiological evidence on stroke trends in the Americas, with emphasis on disparities in healthcare access. We integrated estimates from the GBD, peer-reviewed studies and national surveillance systems. Although age-standardized stroke rates declined after 1990, recent analyses demonstrate a concerning resurgence, particularly among younger adults. Stroke incidence, prevalence, and disability burden vary widely across countries. Latin America and the Caribbean show higher incidence but lower prevalence than high-income settings, reflecting limited access to acute care and higher case fatality. Socioeconomic and racial inequities drive delayed treatment and poorer functional outcomes. Over 75% of stroke burden is attributable to modifiable risk factors. Urgent system-level action is needed.