A Population-Based Survey of Stroke Knowledge in Argentina: The SIFHON Study

Abstract

Background and objectives: Information about stroke awareness in Latin America is scant. We conducted a large population survey in Argentina to assess stroke knowledge.

Methods: We distributed 110,000 multiple-choice anonymous questionnaires using the house distribution system of a bottled water dispensing company. The survey assessed demographic characteristics and stroke knowledge.

Results: A total of 12,710 surveys were returned (12%). Even though 95% of the respondents reported some prior information about stroke, only 37% had adequate knowledge based on prespecified criteria. The Spanish acronym for accidente cerebrovascular, was the most frequently identified name for stroke. Sixty nine percent of respondents were able to identify stroke main risk factors and only 29% knew about transient ischemic attacks. If a hypothetical scenario of stroke was presented, 63% knew the existence of a time-dependent treatment, 25% would call an ambulance, and 50% would go to an emergency room by own means. A lower degree of knowledge was present in young, single, and nonuniversity men.

Conclusions: This study represents the largest stroke awareness survey in a Spanish-speaking population. There was good recognition of some basic facts of stroke. However, the population had poor knowledge of prevalence and severity of the disease, transient ischemic attacks, and treatment availability.

Keywords: Cerebrovascular disease; Epidemiology; Latin America; Stroke.