Serum total bilirubin level, prevalent stroke, and stroke outcomes: NHANES 1999-2004.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Bilirubin inhibits experimental atherosclerosis, is inversely associated with carotid plaque burden, and confers neuroprotection in experimental stroke. Clinical data addressing the association of bilirubin with stroke are not available. We hypothesized that higher bilirubin levels would be associated with reduced stroke prevalence and improved stroke outcomes.

Methods

We used the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999 to 2004, a nationally representative cross-sectional examination of the United States civilian population, to examine the association of bilirubin with stroke. Of 13,214 adult participants with data on stroke history, serum total bilirubin level, and stroke risk factors, 453 reported a history of stroke. Of these, 138 participants rep

SUBMITTER: Perlstein TS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2596911 | biostudies-literature | 2008 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature