Stroke Risks, Warning Signs, and Management: A Public Perspective

Abstract

Background: Stroke is one of the leading causes of death globally, claiming approximately 6.5 million lives annually and posing a significant public health challenge. Its high mortality and disability rates highlight the critical need to address risk factors and enhance public awareness. Methods: A structured questionnaire was used to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of the general population regarding stroke. Statistical analyses, including ANOVA with repeated measures, were performed, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Participants represented a range of occupations: healthcare professionals (19.61%), IT and administrative professionals (29.41%), self-employed individuals (41.18%), and unemployed individuals (9.80%). While 76.47% correctly identified stroke as a brain disorder, 23.53% lacked this understanding. KAP scores were significantly higher among IT professionals compared to other groups (p = 0.018). Conclusion: Improving stroke awareness through interdisciplinary efforts involving cerebrovascular and cardiovascular experts, combined with targeted public education campaigns, is critical to reducing the disease’s impact.