Knowledge and awareness of and perception towards cardiovascular disease risk in sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the most common cause of non-communicable disease mortality in sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries. Gaps in knowledge of CVD conditions and their risk factors are important barriers in effective prevention and treatment. Yet, evidence on the awareness and knowledge level of CVD and associated risk factors among populations of SSA is scarce. This review aimed to synthesize available evidence of the level of knowledge of and perceptions towards CVDs and risk factors in the SSA region.

Methods

Five databases were searched for publications up to December 2016. Narrative synthesis was conducted for knowledge level of CVDs, knowledge of risk factors and clinical signs, factors influencing knowledge of CVDs and source of health inform

SUBMITTER: Boateng D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5726714 | biostudies-literature | 2017

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature