Background and Aim: Most strokes can be often prevented by managing modifiable risk factors. Our aim is to provide an overview of participant characteristics in a trial of personalized advice to reduce their risk of stroke.
Methods: PERKS-International trial conducted across Australia and New Zealand (NZ) assessed whether the use of Stroke Riskometer™ mobile-app improves stroke risk factors at 6months post-randomisation. Eligible participants were stroke-free, aged 35-75yrs, with ≥2 modifiable risk factors; owned a smartphone. An online survey gathered information on medical history, smoking, diet, and physical activity (PA). Descriptive statistics compared participant characteristics at screening in Australia and New Zealand.
Results: Among 775 participants, 51% were from NZ, median age 60years; 63% women. The sex distribution was similar but median age differed significantly between Australia and NZ (56 vs 63 years). Prevalence of high BP and cholesterol were similar in Australia and NZ. A higher percentage of participants in NZ have diabetes (32.7%) compared to those in Australia (18.5%). NZ participants also had a higher mean BMI compared to Australian participants. Only 28% consumed ≥5servings/day of fruit and vegetables with median daily consumption higher in Australian than NZ (4 vs 3 servings). Approximately 37% and 16% of participants engaged in ≥150min/week of moderate/ vigorous PA, respectively and most were non-smokers with no significant differences in these behaviours between the two countries.
Conclusions: The study reveals health disparities between Australian and New Zealand participants. These findings underscore the importance of lifestyle interventions to improve chronic disease management within the community.