Knowledge of stroke and attitude to activate emergency medical services: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Acute brain stroke is one of the leading causes of death in the world. Translating knowledge of stroke warning signs into appropriate actions is critical to decrease prehospital delay, meaning that the population has a key role in reducing the hospitalization time of affected people. Objectives The aim is to understand in which percentage adults (318, without healthcare formation) would react properly by calling emergency medical services (EMS) when presented with hypothetical stroke-related scenarios and how the knowledge of warning signs is related to different factors. Methods a population-based online survey was carried out in a random sample of Italian adults in June-July 2019. The STAT (Stroke Action Test) questionnaire included 21 close-ended questions focused on stroke symptoms. The prevalence and distribution of stroke knowledge was examined. Results 445 subjects were enrolled; the mean age was 36 years. The average score was 10,9/21, and only 21% had an optimal performance. Higher scores are associated with female gender and older age (p < 0,01). When a situation described a single stroke sign, only the 15% recognized the importance to call EMS. The sign/symptom mainly recognized (57%) was “trouble speaking”. Conclusions this study provides data describing stroke knowledge among Italian adults; despite its limitations, the study shows that people hesitate to call EMS when stroke signs and symptoms are presented. The knowledge of stroke signs/symptoms remains lower than the heart attack ones. As expected, it would be 'useful to give proper information and training on stroke signs/symptoms' but also it is fundamental to emphasize that stroke is a medical emergency and needs a fast hospital admission. Key messages There is a lack of knowledge in stroke emergency shall raise community awareness about the need of education campaigns. It is important to improve stroke's signs and symptoms in order to have better prognosis.