USA Today: During stroke, African Americans call relatives before 911

A new study suggests that when African Americans are experiencing stroke symptoms, nearly three-fourths will call a relative first, before dialing 911. Ausim Azizi, chair of the neurology department at Temple's School of Medicine, says strokes can be easier to ignore. "It doesn't cause pain or shortness of breath — it's somewhat benign until it's too late," he said. He adds that cultural factors may also be at play, and that call may be because they want a relative to accompany them to the hospital. "It's about trust — is the medical system going to do the right thing by them or not?" he said.
May 6, 2011 | USA Today