Stroke Knowledge and Misconceptions Among Survivors of Stroke and a Non-Stroke Survivor Sample

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate stroke knowledge, knowledge gaps, and misconceptions about stroke among stroke survivors and non-stroke survivors. Method: Archival data from a stroke knowledge test administered to 38 non-stroke survivors (community sample) were compared to data collected for this study from 42 stroke survivors. Results: No difference in the overall level of stroke knowledge between groups was found. There were 12 issues about which stroke survivors and non-stroke survivors appear to have good understanding (e.g., the role of aspirin in preventing stroke). There were a smaller number of issues about which participants from both groups reported they lacked knowledge (e.g., the relationship between TIAs and stroke) or held erroneous beliefs (e.g., the effect of atrial fibrillation on stroke risk). Conclusion: There is a continuing need for education about stroke. Particular areas on which such programs might need to focus are identified.