Knowledge and Response to Stroke Among Lebanese Adults: A Population-Based Survey

Abstract

ObjectivesTo date, research on public awareness of stroke warning symptoms, risk factors and practice in the general adult population in Lebanon is scarce. The aim of our study is to identify the level of stroke awareness in order to develop and implement preventive measures particularly in relationship to primary stroke prevention.MethodsIt is a cross-sectional study conducted among 410 adult participants from the five main governorates of Lebanon. Stroke knowledge and practice were assessed using two validated questionnaires namely the Stroke Knowledge Test (SKT) and the Stroke Action Test (STAT). Multivariable linear regression models were conducted to examine socio-demographic, social habits, and clinical factors independently associated with the SKT and the STAT scores.ResultsThe mean SKT score of the participants was 9.16. 48.5% showed a poor stroke-related knowledge level and 51.5% a good knowledge level. Living in Mount Lebanon and occasional smokers showed statistically significant lower mean SKT scores; whereas, university degree and suffering from diabetes mellitus were associated with higher mean SKT scores. The mean overall STAT score was 41.3%. For 36.8% of the stroke symptoms, respondents selected call 112. The mean STAT scores of participants who get their information from the internet was statistically significantly lower. However, no association was found between the SKT score and the STAT score.ConclusionKnowledge of stroke risk factors was low, as was awareness of the need to call 112 in response to stroke symptoms. Hence, it is essential to develop health education programs in order to decrease stroke morbidity and mortality.

Assessing the Efficacy of an Educational Video on Stroke Knowledge in Lebanon: A Study with an Interventional Approach

“…In Lebanon, stroke is the second leading cause of death in Lebanon, ranging between 14.1-22% [13]. Despite the detrimental impact of stroke, knowledge and awareness about this disease remain limited [14,15]. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the impact of an educational video intervention and identify predictors that may contribute to variations in knowledge and awareness outcomes by conducting a comparative analysis of knowledge and awareness levels among participants before and after the implementation of the intervention.…”

Stroke knowledge attitude behavior and practice in Sennar population, Sudan

“…Based on this supposition, the general public must be informed about stroke, be able to identify the risk factors, signs, and symptoms, and be aware of the preventative actions for this condition as well as the proper behavior when faced with a stroke. (3) Previous studies conducted globally revealed that the general public has a poor understanding of stroke symptoms and risk factors (4). One of the most successful prevention strategies is increasing community knowledge, which is why awareness campaigns should focus on doing just that.…”

“…Additionally, some lifestyle choices, such as smoking and drinking alcohol, are known to increase the risk of stroke. (4) Past medical history is an important factor to look into because it is known that stroke risk factors (such as a history of diabetes and hypertension) are present in people with low socioeconomic status. Increased knowledge of stroke has been linked to high-income status, smoking history, and educational attainment.…”

“…It is well known that lifestyle changes and the management of modi able risk factors can prevent 80% of stroke cases, highlighting the need for primary prevention. (4) This study aimed to explore the knowledge of stroke risk factors, and symptoms in the Sennar city population and to decrease the critical period between the onset of symptoms and arrival to the hospital.…”

Stroke related knowledge, prevention practices and associated factors among stroke patients in Taizhou, China

“…It is believed that the main factor is the public's poor levels of knowledge regarding stroke symptoms and prevention practices ( Jones et al, 2010 , Faiz et al, 2014 ). Therefore, better awareness of stroke-related symptoms or warning signs were significantly correlated with public knowledge of stroke and appropriate action ( Mosley et al, 2014 , Soto-Cámara et al, 2020 , Saade et al, 2022 ).…”