Cerebrovascular disease morbidity in the United States, 1970-1983. Age, sex, region, and vascular surgery.

Data from the National Hospital Discharge Survey were reviewed to assess trends in hospital discharge rates for cerebrovascular disease in the United States between 1970 and 1983. Hospital discharge rates showed little consistent change during the 1970's but increased after 1979. Hospital case fatality declined during the same period. Cerebrovascular disease discharge rates were higher among older persons, men, and blacks. Hospital case fatality was higher in older persons and blacks. Rates of cerebral arteriography and endarterectomy of vessels of the head and neck increased between 1979 and 1983. Methodologic problems in monitoring cerebrovascular disease trends are reviewed and recommendations for future research presented.