The mass media campaigns show mixed results regarding acute stroke treatment rates, possibly attributed to the various media platforms utilized and resources available. The adult and youth community interventions reveal an overall increase in stroke symptom recognition and behavioral intent to call EMS. However, most of these community interventions were not grounded in health behavior theory, and they were tested in single group, pre-post test study designs that assessed behavioral rather than clinical outcomes. The delivery of stroke preparedness information by youth to adults, for example via home assignments, is a promising and innovative approach to stroke preparedness. Mass media and community interventions show promise to increase stroke preparedness and acute stroke treatment rates. The development of health behavior theory-based interventions that are tested via scientifically rigorous study designs are needed to prioritize which interventions should be disseminated to culturally and socially similar communities.

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