South Western Sydney Stroke and Neurology Group (SWS Strong) is a collaboration of clinicians and researchers from South Western Sydney Local Health District (SWSLHD) and the Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research. Led by Associate Professor Dennis Cordato, SWS Strong is one group belonging to the Ingham Institute’s expansive Clinical Sciences research stream.
The group focuses their research on stroke and neuroscience, with a number of existing research opportunities for Independent Learning Projects (ILP), Honours, Masters, and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) students available.
SWSLHD has one of the largest stroke referral centres in NSW, including an active endovascular clot retrieval service. SWS Strong has a special interest in providing excellence in the diagnosis and management of acute stroke patients.
SWS Strong have dedicated clinical trials and research staff tasked with leading the community, driving research, and participating in a number of multicentre international clinical trials.
SWS Strong aims to promote collaborative research within South Western Sydney Local Health District and external partners to deliver health excellence for the population of south western Sydney.
Liverpool Hospital was ranked number one for acute stroke service out of 117 hospitals across Australia in the 2017 National Stroke Audit.
Background:
Time of stroke onset to hospital presentation is an important determinant of whether patients qualify for time-sensitive reperfusion therapy. As such, initiatives promoting awareness about benefits of early presentation are keys for delivering improved care to stroke patients.
The study focusses on patients of diverse cultural and linguistic background (CALD) with historical evidence of delayed hospital presentation for stroke and lower likelihood to call an ambulance (Bhaskar, S., Thomas, P., Cheng, Q., Clements, N., McDougall, A., Hodgkinson, S., Cordato, D. (2019).Trends in acute stroke presentations to an emergency department: implications for specific communities in accessing acute stroke care services. DOI: 10.1136/postgradmedj-2019-136413).
The study will investigate their stroke awareness and knowledge. CALD patients have higher incidences of cardiovascular diseases and vascular risk factors. The survey and education will raise their stroke awareness, emphasise the importance of early hospital presentation and optimal risk factor management.
Study Objectives:
To find out more about SWS Strong, please contact research@inghaminstitute.org.au
