Mission

To conduct research that improves access, quality, and outcomes of care for persons with stroke, reduces risk for stroke, and eliminates disparities in care by race and socioeconomic status; and, to train individuals whose work will accomplish these goals.

Overview

Stroke is the leading cause of major disability in the United States. It also is the second leading cause of death worldwide and the third-leading cause of death in the United States. The impact of stroke disproportionately affects minorities and the elderly, and it will increase as the population ages. In Cuyahoga County alone, over 3000 residents are hospitalized annually for stroke; of these, almost 1000 die each year. Most patients who are at increased risk for stroke, and most stroke victims, are cared for in community settings. These features of stroke care motivate community-wide efforts to reduce stroke risk, improve care for acute stroke victims, and improve access and quality of follow-up care among stroke survivors. Modifiable risk factors for stroke include obesity, tobacco use, high blood pressure, abnormal blood lipids, and diabetes mellitus.

The Stroke Outcomes Research Program brings together researchers from multiple disciplines to allow comprehensive evaluation of availability, delivery, and outcomes of health care for stroke and those at increased risk for stroke. The Program spans hospitals and health care systems across Northeast Ohio. The main focus of SORP is the assessment of community-based stroke prevention, management, and outcomes in northeastern Ohio. It has several areas of concentration.