Public Awareness and Attitude Towards Stroke in the Southern Region of Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction Stroke is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Recognizing risk factors, identifying warning signs, and seeking timely medical intervention are crucial for preventing stroke and improving outcomes. This study aims to assess stroke awareness and attitudes among residents in southern Saudi Arabia and determine predictors of stroke knowledge. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among residents aged ≥18 years in the southern region of Saudi Arabia excluding individuals with a history of stroke and healthcare workers. A sample size of 576 participants was calculated. Data were collected conveniently via a self-administered online Arabic questionnaire that was adopted from the literature. The questionnaire assessed demographic characteristics, stroke knowledge, attitudes, and symptom responses. Data analysis was performed using multiple linear regression to identify predictors of awareness of stroke. Results A total of 510 participants (median age: 29 years, interquartile range: 24, 40) were included, with 288 (56%) being male. Stroke was identified as a brain disease by 287 (56%), and 371 (73%) recognized its preventability. Awareness of stroke symptoms ranged from 332 (65%) for sudden dizziness to 399 (78%) for speech difficulties. The most recognized risk factors were hypertension (443, 87%), smoking (395, 77%), and diabetes mellitus (342, 67%). Better general awareness was associated with being married (β: 0.34, 95% CI: 0.07-0.61), divorced (β: 0.34, 95% CI: 0.07-0.61), or having a family history of stroke (β: 0.46, 95% CI: 0.22-0.70). Higher symptom awareness was linked to a family history of stroke (β: 0.92, 95% CI: 0.38-1.50) and earning 3000-10,000 RAS (β: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.11-1.50). For risk factor awareness, family history of stroke (β: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.32-1.60) and earning 3000-10,000 RAS (β: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.12-1.80) were significant predictors. Awareness of stroke's consequence was higher among older participants (β: 0.02, 95% CI: 0.00-0.04) and those with a family history of stroke (β: 0.45, 95% CI: 0.09-0.81), while males (β: -0.32, 95% CI: -0.61 to -0.03) had lower scores. Conclusion The study highlights significant gaps in stroke awareness, particularly in recognizing symptoms with moderate overall knowledge of stroke risk factors. Targeted educational campaigns and community outreach programs for at-risk populations are essential to improving stroke awareness and ensuring timely medical intervention.