Stroke perception and risk factors knowledge within Saudi population

Stroke is a highly preventable illness through the control of risk factors. Persons who properly perceive their risk for stroke can promote risk intervention and reduce stroke occurrence. Assess stroke perception and risk factors knowledge in general population. A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study conducted in Majmaah Governorate, KSA. The study included 432 participants. Data was analyzed by using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) program (V.22). P values < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Knowledge score of stroke risk factors were inadequate or average (26.9%, 34.0% respectively). Rural residents showed high knowledge; significantly higher knowledge detected in age group ≥ 45 years, university or higher education and employees. Participants had good and average perception of stroke 34% and 56% respectively. Good perception was significantly higher in female and private sector workers. Participants ≤ 25 years old had the highest good perception 40.7%. Bad perception was high in male, age group (34-44), university educated and single people. Most participants had unsatisfactory stroke risk factor knowledge and good perception of stroke. Stroke knowledge is higher among the old age groups, the married, the highly educated, and employed persons. The stroke perception is higher among the younger age groups, the female gender and housewives. Since female and young age groups have poor knowledge and good perception, and in addition, young adults are facing higher risks of stroke nowadays, implementation of an educational program to enhance awareness about stroke risk factor and promote adoption of healthy lifestyle is a requirement.