Genes, neighborhoods and a surprising finding on stroke risk

A genetic score may be able to identify higher stroke risk – but only for people living in the most privileged neighborhoods, according to new research that highlights inequities related to wealth and health.

Researchers looked at acute ischemic stroke, the most common type of stroke. It is caused by a clot blocking blood flow to the brain. Genetic factors are known to influence stroke risk, and previous research shows the risk also can be affected by poverty, low education or lack of health insurance, factors known as social determinants of health.

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