Knowledge regarding warning signs and prevention of stroke among general population in selected urban community, with a view to develop informational booklet

Abstract

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND Stroke is a common neurological disorder which has a significant impact on patients. Hypertension is said to be the most common risk factor of stroke associated with hemiplegia and paralysis and the warning signals that mostly noted in stroke are numbness, weakness and slurred speech. There is lack of knowledge in the community regarding warning signs, risk factors and the prevention of stroke. Therefore, awareness is needed on the importance of stroke prevention and seeking health care. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study is to assess the knowledge regarding warning signs and prevention of stroke among selected urban community. METHODS: The research approach adopted for the study was quantitative research approach, one group pre- test design. The study was conducted among 60 samples of age group of above 50 years by convenient sampling technique in Tlangnuam Community, Aizawl, Mizoram. The tools used for the study was self-administered structured knowledge questionnair RESULTS : The data was tabulated, analyzed and interpreted using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings reveal that that majority (40%) of participants were between the age group 50-59 years, (33.33%) were the age group of 60-69 years, (16.67%) were 70-79 years and the remaining (10%) were above 80 years. Further result depicts that majority (50%) of respondents had inadequate knowledge, (26.67%) of respondents had moderate knowledge and remaining (23.33%) of respondents had adequate knowledge. The result indicates the need to update knowledge regarding warning signs and prevention of stroke. CONCLUSION From this study, there was a clear knowledge gap regarding stroke and associated symptoms in the urban community of Tlangnuam Community

Keywords: KNOWLEDGE, STROKE