Public Knowledge of Stroke Amongst a Saudi Population

Wijdan M Basfar,Awatef E Al-Sebyani, Ghufran A Aljawi, Haneen A Milyani,Mohammed M. Jan

Background:Adequate public awareness and knowledge of stroke is needed for proper identification and prevention of potential morbidity and disability. This study was conducted to examine the public stroke awareness and knowledge in a regional Saudi population. Methods:A cross sectional study was conducted using a structuredquestionnaire designed to examine public knowledge about stroke warning signs, risk factors, and acute management. Participants were included during an educational stroke campaign at a large shopping center in Jeddah, Saudi Arabiaduring the month of August, 2011. Results:A total of 506 participants were included. Most participants were young (62% <30 years), females (70%), and well educated (80% had a university degree). Although most participants (87%) recognized stroke definition and the need for urgent medical attention, only 34% rated their stroke knowledge as good.Factors correlating with giving the correct answers to the stroke warning signs and risk factors including female gender (92% females vs 83% males, p=0.003) and adequate financial income (91% adequate vs 74% inadequate, p=0.017). On the other hand, factors correlating significantly with the general perception of good stroke knowledge included younger age (<30 years), female gender, being single, having university education, and residing in an urban area. Conclusion:Although most participates were able to recognized stroke symptoms and the need for urgent medical attention, their level of knowledge was weak and correlated with their social, economic, and educational levels. Further education is needed in our region.