Moscow population awareness of stroke and educational policy (survey results)

Abstract

Prevention of strokes and the fight against their consequences require not only the work of the healthcare system, but also the self-preserving behavior of the population, which is largely motivated by competence in this sphere. The study of public awareness on this issue and the development of recommendations on information policy were the main objectives of the study. In October-December 2019 two surveys were conducted in Moscow, the sample of each was 800 people. The study found an increase between the waves in the number of those who think they know the signs of a stroke (up to 65%). Despite the mainly correct answers, this self-evaluation is not always backed-up by real knowledge: e.g. a stroke was sometimes confused with an ischemic heart disease, a heart attack and epilepsy. Less competency is demonstrated by men and people with primary/secondary education, younger respondents. 94% of the respondents will call an ambulance when they see signs of a stroke, 16% will begin to provide assistance on their own, and in general their actions will be correct, although there are a number of misconceptions. Among the main risk factors of a stroke the respondents consider bad habits. The population receives information about signs of a stroke mainly from relatives/friends (25%) and on the Internet (22%). The study found necessity for the right information about strokes. There is a need for some greater presentation of peer-reviewed information materials in the information field.