Evaluation of the knowledge and attitudes on stroke among family medicine residents in Ankara province

Aims: Stroke is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and in Turkiye. A significant proportion of patients in family medicine practice are individuals at risk for stroke. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitudes regarding stroke among family medicine residents working in medical faculties and training and research hospitals in XXX. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study included 241 family medicine residents working in XXX. Sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and training status related to stroke were collected using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 26.0. Results: Of the participants, 140 (58.1%) were female and 101 (41.9%) were male. The mean knowledge score was 79.63 ± 7.89, and the mean attitude score was 86.78 ± 5.94. Only 31 participants (12.9%) had completed a neurology rotation. Forty-seven participants (19.5%) had previously received training on stroke; 34 (14.1%) considered themselves sufficient in stroke management, while 131 (54.4%) considered themselves partially sufficient. Seventy-one participants (29.5%) reported adequate knowledge of stroke risk factors. Knowledge scores were significantly higher among those who had completed a neurology rotation (p= 0.027). Participants who had received stroke-related training felt more competent in the subject (p<0.001). No significant correlation was found between age, years in practice, or duration of residency and knowledge or attitude scores. Conclusion: Although family medicine residents demonstrated generally adequate knowledge about stroke, there were gaps in training and practical experience. The rates of participation in neurology rotations and stroke-related educational programs were low. Completing a neurology rotation was associated with higher knowledge scores. Incorporating neurology rotations into residency training may positively enhance residents’ knowledge and attitudes toward stroke, which is crucial for public health.