Knowledge, attitude, and practices of hypertensive patients toward stroke prevention among rural population in NCR, India: A cross-sectional survey.

Abstract

Hypertension is a major modifiable risk factor for stroke, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite its preventability, stroke remains a leading cause of disability, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) regarding stroke prevention play a crucial role in reducing its burden. This study aims to assess the KAP of hypertensive patients toward stroke prevention in rural areas of the National Capital Region (NCR), India. A cross-sectional, community-based study was conducted among 230 hypertensive individuals from selected rural areas of NCR, India, using a purposive sampling technique. Data were collected using a self-structured and validated questionnaire assessing knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to stroke prevention. Descriptive statistics, Student's <i>t</i>-test, Bartlett's test, and Spearman correlation coefficient were applied for data analysis using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 28. The study found that only 44.78% of participants correctly identified stroke risk factors, while awareness of warning signs (35.22%) and symptoms (22.61%) was notably low. A significant portion (65.07%) adhered to daily antihypertensive medication, but only 37.99% regularly monitored their health. Attitudes toward hypertension and stroke prevention were mixed, with 47.39% believing stroke could be managed with medication alone. Lifestyle-based interventions, such as exercise and dietary modifications, were less commonly acknowledged, with only 47.60% avoiding extra salt. Spearman's correlation showed a significant positive association between knowledge and practice (<i>r</i> = 0.3466, <i>P</i> = 0.0001), suggesting that improved knowledge leads to better health behaviors. The study highlights a moderate level of knowledge, positive attitudes, and relatively good practices among hypertensive patients in rural NCR, India. However, gaps in stroke awareness, emergency response knowledge, and non-pharmacological management strategies need to be addressed. Targeted educational interventions by healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, can play a vital role in improving stroke prevention awareness and practices in rural populations.