Patients' knowledge and attitudes about myocardial infarction

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Public Health
• Health Education

Background:

• Delay in seeking emergency care is a major factor in myocardial infarction (MI) mortality.
• Understanding patient knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs is vital for improving post-MI outcomes.
• Effective patient education can empower individuals to manage heart disease and seek timely care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs regarding heart disease in Lebanese patients post-MI hospitalization.
• To identify factors associated with these knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs.
• To investigate the extent of heart disease education received by these patients.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive study involving 50 Lebanese patients hospitalized for acute myocardial infarction.
• Interviews conducted 1 month post-discharge using the Acute Coronary Syndrome Response Index and Control Attitude Scale-Revised.
• Assessment of patient knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and perceived control related to heart disease.

Main Results:

• Inadequate knowledge was prevalent, with only 26% scoring above 70% on knowledge assessments.
• A significant majority (84%) reported receiving no formal education about heart disease.
• While confident in symptom recognition, patients showed inconsistent beliefs about the importance of prompt emergency care for MI.

Conclusions:

• Lebanese patients hospitalized for MI demonstrate insufficient knowledge and limited education regarding heart disease.
• There is a critical need to enhance patient education and counseling on recognizing and responding to MI symptoms.
• Improvements in heart disease education are necessary in both acute care and primary healthcare settings to reduce MI mortality.