Knowledge for stroke survivors and risk for a second stroke

What is the greatest risk factor for suffering a second stroke? This article notes that almost half of a sample of stroke survivors could not name one risk factor to change, highlighting that the greatest risk factor of a second stroke may in fact be a simple lack of education.

This article conducted face-to-face interviews of 60 stroke survivors to note what level of education and stroke prevention they were practicing. Interviews were conducted with a sample of individuals who had suffered their first stroke over the course of a 12-month span. Within the survey, 4 specific risk factors were evaluated for prevention of a future stoke: physical activity, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and dietary modifications. Of the 60 individuals in this sample, 36.7% could only name one risk factor modification, and 0% could name all four risk factors. This article also highlighted the fact that nearly half the surveyed population sited hospital-based education as their source for education, with a smaller percentage from family and friends. 

The authors highlight the need for increased education and need for further education of patients who have suffered a stroke. Having survived a stroke does not necessarily mean an individual is any the wiser in being able to prevent a second, and the needs for risk management education is imperative.

> From: Peter et al., J Med Biomed Appl Sci 3 (2017) 53. All rights reserved to The Author(s). Click here for the online summary.