Public Awareness of Stroke and the Appropriate Responses in China: A Cross-Sectional Community-Based Study...

Background and Purpose—Early presentation is critical for receiving effective reperfusion therapy for acute ischemic stroke, therefore, we undertook a national survey of awareness and responses to acute stroke symptoms in China. Methods—We undertook a cross-sectional community-based study of 187 723 adults (age ≥40 years) presenting to 69 administrative areas across China between January 2017 and May 2017 to determine the national stroke recognition rate and the correct action rate. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with stroke recognition and intention-to-avail emergency medical services. Results—Estimates of stroke recognition rate and correct action rate were 81.9% (153 675/187723) and 60.9% (114 380/187723), respectively, but these rates varied widely by sociodemographic status, region, and stroke risk. Approximately one-third of participants who recognized a stroke failed to call emergency medical service. Low likelihood of emergency medical service use was associated with younger age (40–59 years), being male, rural location, (regions of east, south, and northwest China), high body mass index (≥24), low education (primary school or below), low personal income (