Knowledge of Stroke and its Risk Factors among Stroke Survivors: A Hospital Based Study

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Stroke incidence and outcomes vary significantly between high-income and low-resource countries.
• Limited research exists on stroke knowledge within the Bangladeshi population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the level of knowledge regarding stroke and its associated risk factors among stroke survivors in Bangladesh.

Main Methods:

• A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted with 50 stroke survivors (aged >18 years) at Uttara Adhunik Medical College & Hospital, Dhaka.
• Data were collected through interviews using a case record form, with 'good' knowledge defined as answering ≥4 out of 7 questions correctly.
• Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 22.00.

Main Results:

• Overall, 78% of stroke survivors demonstrated good knowledge of stroke.
• While 52% identified the brain as the stroke's center, only 12% recognized blood supply disruption as a cause.
• Stress was the most commonly identified risk factor (50%), and 76% recognized at least one warning sign.

Conclusions:

• A majority of Bangladeshi stroke survivors possess good general knowledge about stroke and its risk factors.
• Significant gaps exist in understanding stroke's underlying causes and the importance of timely intervention (golden hour).
• Knowledge levels were not significantly associated with demographic or socioeconomic factors, indicating a need for targeted health education strategies.