Stroke literacy in Central Harlem: a high-risk stroke population.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Awareness of stroke warning symptoms and risk factors (stroke literacy), as well as knowledge of available treatment options, may be poor in high-risk populations. We sought to evaluate stroke literacy among residents of Central Harlem, a predominantly African American population, in a cross-sectional study.

Methods

Ten community-based sites in Central Harlem were identified between 2005 and 2006 for administration of a stroke knowledge survey. Trained volunteers administered in-person closed-ended questionnaires focused on stroke symptoms and risk factors.

Results

A total of 1,023 respondents completed the survey. African Americans comprised 65.7% (n = 672) of the survey cohort. The brain was correctly identified as the site where a stroke occurs by 53.7%

SUBMITTER: Willey JZ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2790229 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature