Knowledge and Perception of Stroke among at Risk Medical Out-Patients in a Tertiary Health Institution in Nigeria

Background: Patients who recognize their increased risk of stroke are more likely to engage in stroke prevention practices than those who do not. Method: All patients attending medical out-patient clinic of the Federal Medical Center, Ido, Ekiti-State, Nigeria between January 2004-December 2004 were recruited into the screening process following their verbal consent. A set of questionnaire was administered to collect data. Results: A total of 155 patients were studied having satisfied the inclusion criteria. The mean age of the patients was 58.4±18.7 years. Majority of the patients indicated paralysis of one side of the body as the most common symptom of stroke. Patients with higher education p=0.002 and men p=0.004 were more aware of their increased risk factor for stroke than those with low education and women. Conclusion: Perception about stroke among the at risk medical out patients as found out in this study indicates that more health education both at the community and the hospital is very vital to reducing the prevalence, recurrence, disability and mortality of stroke. Health providers are enjoined to communicate information about stroke risk to their patients.