Abstract

STROKE AWARENESS: KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND HEALTH SEEKING BEHAVIOR OF RURAL POPULATION IN TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL, SVIMS, TIRUPATI

Naveen Prasad S.V.*, Vengamma B., Krishnasai Reddy Onti, Bhagyalakshmi Guthi, Lahari Reddy Konda and Chamundeswari Gangireddy

Abstract

Background: Stroke causes chronic adult disability and mortality with rising incidence in India. Lack of awareness of stroke warning signs and symptoms are significant reasons for delay in seeking medical care. Knowledge on stroke is very important in early detection of stroke. Aim: To assess the knowledge, Attitude and Health seeking behavior of rural population in a tertiary care hospital, SVIMS, Tirupati. Materials and Methods: Questionnaire based study was done over 6 months among 200 subjects. The response of the participants was recorded and analyzed using Microsoft, SPSS – 25.0 Software. Results: The KAP questionnaires were given to 200 subjects. In this study, 52% subjects were female, mostly in the age group of 41 – 50 years. A term called „stroke‟ was known to 55.7% and 40% of subjects respectively. Among total subjects 65% subjects from stroke affected family (SAF), 35% subjects from non stroke affected family (NSAF). Paralysis the most recognized symptoms in SAF whereas loss of consciousness and paralysis in NSAF. Hypertension was identified as the most common risk factor for stroke in SAF whereas family history in NSAF. Conclusion: Participants from the both SAF and NSAF groups had lesser knowledge about stroke. It is very important and necessary to improve the patient knowledge on stroke by conducting educational programs.

Keywords: Stroke, awareness, knowledge, attitude, practice, tPA, window period.