Stroke Riskometer^TM mobile phone application improves stroke knowledge in a randomized controlled trial.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Digital Health
• Stroke Prevention

Background:

• Increasing public knowledge about stroke is crucial for reducing its burden.
• A randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluated the Stroke Riskometer™ mobile application's impact on stroke knowledge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness of the Stroke Riskometer™ mobile application in improving stroke knowledge.
• To determine if the app enhances understanding of stroke risk factors, warning signs, and management.

Main Methods:

• A phase III, prospective, blinded, 2-arm RCT conducted in Australia and New Zealand (2021-2023).
• Participants (aged 35-75) with ≥2 stroke risk factors and no prior cardiovascular disease were randomized.
• Stroke knowledge was measured using validated questions at baseline, 3, 6, and 12 months.

Main Results:

• The intervention group (app users) showed a statistically significant increase in overall stroke knowledge at 6 months compared to the usual care group.
• The app demonstrated a stronger effect on identifying stroke risk factors at 3 months.
• Intervention effects were more pronounced in individuals with higher education and specific socioeconomic and ethnic backgrounds.

Conclusions:

• The Stroke Riskometer™ app offers a modest, short-term improvement in stroke knowledge.
• Evidence for sustained knowledge retention at 12 months was lacking, suggesting limited long-term impact.
• While knowledge can drive behavior change, the app's current efficacy may not fully support primary stroke prevention efforts.