Stroke awareness among Saratov respondents, and risk factors for acute cerebral circulation disorders (according to a population survey)

Objective: to analyze awareness level among Saratov's population about stroke, and to identify regional characteristics of risk factors for the development of acute cerebrovascular accident (ACVA) based on the results of a survey. Material and Methods. A personal questionnaire was conducted through a personal conversation with the residents of Saratov who applied for medical care in polyclinics as part of the campaign "World Day Against Stroke" October 29, 2019. Results. The survey involved 123 people. Most respondents showed a high level of awareness of such risk factors for ACVA as arterial hypertension, obesity, high blood cholesterol, alcohol abuse, and smoking. The significance of cardiac arrhythmias, a history of transient ischemic attacks, and a hereditary predisposition to the development of stroke were underestimated by the participants of the action. The level of knowledge of the population about thrombolytic therapy and surgical intervention on the vessels of the neck and brain as the leading methods of treating stroke is insufficient. Conclusion. Public informing is necessary to increase the level of awareness about stroke, which allows motivating citizens to remain committed to a healthy lifestyle and eliminate risk factors for developing ACVA.