Stroke Awareness in the Saudi Arabia Community: Prompt Public Health Measures Must Be Implement (P07.010)

Abstract

Objective: We conducted this study to assess the level of stroke awareness in the Saudi Arabia population. Background Stroke is very prevalent in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, approaching 43.8 per 100,000 population. Stroke outcome is known to be affected by the level of stroke awareness in the community. We conducted this study to assess the level of stroke awareness in the Saudi population. Design/Methods: A survey of 21 questions, pertaining to stroke awareness (stroke symptoms, and signs and stroke risk factors), was distributed to Saudi population (aged 15-70) in malls, super markets, health clubs, mosques, universities and schools. Results: 2862 (82% response rate) competed the questionnaire. 1844 (64%) were able to define stroke correctly. 1428 (49.9%) named mass media as the source of their knowledge. 1301 (45.9%) believe stroke and brain death share the same pathological mechanism and outcome, particularly those under the age of 40 (p Conclusions: There is an alarming deficit in the level of stroke awareness in the Saudi population. Urgent public health measures to correct this deficiency, that will match the rate of similar countries, is promptly needed. Disclosure: Dr. AlAqeel has nothing to disclose. Dr. Al Ammari has nothing to disclose. Dr. Alsyefi has nothing to disclose. Dr. Al Hussain has nothing to disclose. Dr. Bhabad has nothing to disclose.