Opportunities and challenges in secondary stroke prevention: a mixed methods study

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Public Health
• Health Informatics

Background:

• Secondary stroke prevention is crucial for reducing recurrence and improving long-term outcomes.
• Effective risk factor management post-stroke requires understanding patient perspectives and barriers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore stroke survivors', families', and healthcare professionals' views on controlling risk factors after stroke.
• To assess the role of technology in self-management of modifiable risk factors, particularly blood pressure.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative focus groups and quantitative surveys.
• Focus groups explored secondary stroke prevention experiences and challenges.
• Surveys examined technology use and blood pressure self-management among stroke survivors.

Main Results:

• Three key themes emerged: stroke as a 'wake-up call,' challenges in risk factor management, and the potential of technology.
• Over 80% of surveyed survivors saw a greater role for technology in managing risk factors.
• Home blood pressure monitoring was linked to better target BP awareness and medication adherence.

Conclusions:

• Significant challenges persist in post-stroke risk factor control, underscoring the need for improved strategies.
• Health information technology offers a promising avenue to enhance stroke survivor engagement in self-management.
• Rehabilitation clinicians can leverage technology to support survivors in managing their risk factors effectively.