Public knowledge and awareness of cardiovascular disease and its risk factors: a cross-sectional study of 1000 Jordanians

OBJECTIVE: To assess the level of the current knowledge and understanding of cardiovascular disease (CVD) among Jordan's general public, their behaviour towards CVD and the factors associated with different CVD knowledge levels. METHODS: The data in the present study were collected using an interview-administered questionnaire. One thousand members of the general public were interviewed face to face. CVD knowledge was computed as a continuous variable. KEY FINDINGS: The present study reports limited public knowledge and awareness of CVD. Participants were more likely to have better CVD knowledge scores if they were non-smokers, always or often paid attention to their diet, reported having an 'about right' weight, occupied a very high socioeconomic level, held a university degree and had positive family history of CVD. Participants indicated that the community pharmacists had to play a role in helping patients manage their prescribed medicines; however, they did not recognise the community pharmacists' role in other areas of CVD prevention and management. CONCLUSION: The present study reports that the general public in Jordan has limited knowledge and awareness of CVD. In planning to positively impact CVD prevention and management, community pharmacists must develop and promote effective and accessible services.