Factors Influencing Stroke Knowledge among Thai Rural Population
Pattra Wattanapan MD1,7, Karnchanasri Singhpoo RN2,7, Lertchai Charerntanyarak PhD3,7, Nomjit Nualnetr PhD4,7, Jiumjit Sangsuwan PhD3,7, Ratchada Ngamroop RN5, Kannikar Kongbunkiat MD6,7, Somsak Tiamkao MD6,7
Affiliation : 1 Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand 2 Community Medicine Service Section, Srinagarind hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand 3 Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Public Health, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand 4 Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand 5 Amphur Onkharuk Public Health Office, Nakhon Nayok, Thailand 6 Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen. Thailand 7 North-Eastern Stroke Research Group, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
Objective : Stroke is the third leading cause of death in Thailand having devastating effects on patients and families. About half
of stroke patients in Thailand live in rural areas where accessing to health care services and information is difficult. To reduce
the incidence of stroke, public stroke awareness is critical. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the factors affecting
stroke knowledge in Thai rural people.
Materials and Methods : A study was conducted among 579 people who live in a rural area (Khao Suan Kwang District, Khon
Kaen, Thailand). All participants were asked to complete the questionnaire which consisted of (1) demographic data (2) 19
items regarding stroke risk factors (3) 11 items of signs and symptoms of stroke including warning signs and (4) management
after a stroke attack.
Results : The majority of participants (79%) were females, with a mean age 49 (SD 16) years. Most participants recognized
stroke risk factors, signs and symptoms and warning signs. Of these participants, 70% had excellent stroke knowledge. Only
16% knew to call 1669, the emergency call number in response to stroke symptoms. In multivariate analysis, age (more than
40 years old), females, working status and incomes showed a positive association with excellent stroke knowledge.
Conclusion : The present study suggested young, male, and unemployed participants were associated with a deficit in stroke
knowledge in rural areas. Therefore, an education campaign should be conducted in rural areas particularly among males and
young people.
Keywords : Stroke knowledge, Risk factor, Warning sign
