Abstract:
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Stroke is a global health problem causing significant morbidity, and mortality in
both developing and developed countries. Worldwide, hypertension is a common modifiable risk
factor for stroke. Approximately 80% of strokes could be prevented with necessary precautions
and actions are taken. Knowledge about stroke and preventive measures of risks are important in
preventing it. In Ethiopia there is limited evidence regarding hypertensive knowledge about
stroke, where as their prevention practice is not known at all.
Objective: The aim of the study was to know knowledge, prevention practices and associated
factors towards stroke among hypertensive patients at University of Gondar comprehensive
specialized hospital, Northwest Ethiopia, 2021
Methods: An institutional based cross sectional study was conducted on 424 participants using
semi-structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire adapted from previous studies. Data has
been coded and then entered to epi data version 4.6.0.4 and exported and analysed by using
SPSS version 20. Descriptive, bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed.
Results: Out of total 424 participants approached, 393 have responded completely making the
response rate of 92.3%. Only 27.2% (95% CI: 22.9, 31.8) of respondents have good knowledge
about stroke. Having formal education and knowing someone with stroke were predictors of
good knowledge about stroke (AOR=7.87, 95% CI =4.07-15.20, p =0.00), and (AOR=7.898,
95% CI =4.38-14.24, p=0.00), respectively. Other predictors of good knowledge are income
?5000 birr and being physically active. Percentage of participants with good stroke prevention
practice is 53.7 %( CI: 49.4, 58.3). Factors significantly associated with having good practice are
having formal education (AOR 4.39, CI: 2.78-6.93), age?50 (AOR 2.51, CI: 1.42-4.44), knowing
someone with stroke (AOR 2.75, CI: 1.68-4.48), and having monthly family income ?5000 birr.
Conclusion: Just beyond one fourth and half of participant have adequate knowledge and
practice respectively.
Keywords: hypertension, stroke, knowledge, prevention practice
