Knowledge of Stroke Risk Factors and Warning Signs among Adults in Pokhara, Nepal

Introduction: The extent of disability cause by stroke is greater than by other diseases. People seek early medical care if they are aware on risk factors and warning signs of stroke, which ultimately improves the outcome. So, this study was conducted to find out the knowledge of stroke risk factors and warning signs among adults in Pokhara. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study design with face to face interview was done on 376 adults of Pokhara, Nepal. The samples were chosen using simple random sampling. Data was analyzed by using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Among 376 adults, 11.2 % had good, 13.8 % had an average and 75% had poor level of knowledge regarding risk factors and warning signs of stroke. Some variables such as; sex (p<.001), ethnicity (p<.001), literacy (p=.004) and prior information on stroke (p<.001) were statistically significant with the level of knowledge on stroke. Conclusion: As the knowledge level was found poor on stroke, the adults could not recognize risk factors and early symptoms of stroke. So, they may be delay to get medical care which ultimately increases mortality and disability. Healthy life styles, risk reduction behavior and suitable treatment seeking practice of community people can be promoted through a community educational program which definitely contributes to reduce mortality and disability.