Stroke awareness in the general population: knowledge of stroke risk factors and warning signs in older adults.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Stroke is a leading cause of death and functional impairment. While older people are particularly vulnerable to stroke, research suggests that they have the poorest awareness of stroke warning signs and risk factors. This study examined knowledge of stroke warning signs and risk factors among community-dwelling older adults.

Methods

Randomly selected community-dwelling older people (aged 65+) in Ireland (n = 2,033; 68% response rate). Participants completed home interviews. Questions assessed knowledge of stroke warning signs and risk factors, and personal risk factors for stroke.

Results

Of the overall sample, 6% had previously experienced a stroke or transient ischaemic attack. When asked to identify stroke risk factors from a provided list, less than hal

SUBMITTER: Hickey A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2734750 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature