Sex differences in stroke reperfusion therapy in Aotearoa (New Zealand)

Background and Aims Stroke is a leading cause of death in Aotearoa (New Zealand), and stroke reperfusion therapy is a key intervention. Sex differences in stroke care have previously been asserted internationally. This study assessed potential differences in stroke reperfusion rates and quality metrics by sex in Aotearoa (New Zealand). Methods This study used data from three overlapping sources. The National Stroke Reperfusion Register provided 4‐year reperfusion data from 2018 to 2021 on all patients treated with reperfusion therapy (intravenous thrombolysis and thrombectomy), including time delays, treatment rates, mortality and complications. Linkage to Ministry of Health administrative and REGIONS Care study data provided an opportunity to control for confounders and explore potential mechanisms. T‐test and Wilcoxon rank‐sum analyses were used for continuous variables, while the chi‐squared test and logistic regression were used for comparing dichotomous variables. Results Fewer women presented with ischaemic stroke (12 186 vs 13 120) and were 4.2 years older than men (median (interquartile range (IQR)) 79 (68–86) vs 73 (63–82) years). Women were overall less likely to receive reperfusion therapy (13.9% (1704) vs 15.8% (2084), P