Study on stroke awareness among caregivers of stroke patients

Background: Stroke related morbidity and mortality could be minimised with early medical interventions. Lack of awareness on stroke warning signs and risk factors are significant reasons for delay in seeking medical care and resultant adverse outcome. The caregiver knowledge on stroke is important in early detection of stroke, hence the study. Aims: To assess the knowledge on warning signs and risk factors of stroke among caregivers of stroke patients. Materials & methods: This cross-sectional questionnaire based study was done over 6 months among 50 caregivers of hospitalized stroke patients. Questionnaire adopted from Leicester Stroke Awareness Campaign Study was administered to the participants and their response was recorded andanalyzed using Microsoft SPSS-IV software. Results: In the study 62 % participants were females; most in the age group of 41-60 years. Term called stroke and brain as the affected organ was known to 70% and 94% of subjects respectively. Sudden onset weakness of arm and leg was identified as a warning sign by 82% and 80% of caregivers. High blood pressure was the most identified (78 %) risk factor. Knowledge on stroke warning signs and risk factors were found to be good in 34% and 46% of subjects respectively. This knowledge was found to be significantly higher among educated and younger subjects. Conclusion: Caregivers of stroke patients had good knowledge of stroke warning sign and risk factors. Caregivers education on stroke might be of great utility to spread the stroke awareness in society.