Perception of stroke among patients with stroke

The perception of patients to stroke is variable. The aim of this study was to determine the perception of stroke among stroke patients. The study was carried out between January 2004 - December 2004 on all the patients presenting with features of stroke at the Federal Medical Center Ido, Nigeria. Data were collected by administering a set of questionnaire to the patients and/or relations. A total of 68 patients were studied, mean age of the patients was 66+3.5 years. High blood pressure was the most common risk factor for stroke identified. Majority of the patients were able to recognize at least one stroke symptom and presented after 48 hours of the onset of stroke symptoms. Patients' perception, lack of transportation, financial constraints and ignorance adversely affected their presentation to the hospital. Delays in patients arriving at hospital with suspected stroke can be reduced by increased awareness. Simple and understandable educational materials should be developed for at risk groups and the entire populace. Keywords: stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes Nigerian Medical Practitioner Vol. 48(2) 2005: 56-5