Introduction: Stroke poses significant challenges in terms of disability and mortality rates within Appalachia. The health condition of stroke survivors in this region is diverse, influenced by factors like limited healthcare access, prevalent risk factors, socioeconomic disparities, and mental health issues, all impacting their well-being significantly. Various approaches and interventions are being deployed to enhance care quality and bolster support networks for stroke survivors in Appalachia. This study assesses the health status and attributes of the Appalachian population concerning stroke.

Method: For this study, data from the 2022 BRFSS were employed. Frequency distribution, chi-square tests, and simple survey logistic regression were utilized to identify variables (p < 0.2) for inclusion in the multiple logistic models. The final predictive model employed manual sequential block-wise selection and backward elimination via survey logistic regression, with a significance level 0.05.

Results: The findings revealed that around four percent of individuals in Appalachia experience stroke, with certain sociodemographic, health status, and health characteristics variables displaying notable association. After adjusting for confounding factors, factors such as higher l income and education, not smoking status, and absence of depression were associated with decreased stroke risk. Conversely, factors like advancing age, poor overall health, lack of physical activity, and abstaining from alcohol consumption were associated with increased stroke risk.

Conclusion: These results underscore the potential importance of stroke prevalence, health status, and characteristics of stroke survivors in the region. However, they do not identify the causal factors underlying these observations.