Stroke-related knowledge and perception among church leaders in the Delta Central Senatorial district, South-South Nigeria

Abstract

Background: The initial strategy for the prevention and management of stroke involves enhancing public awareness of its warning signs and risk factors. Thus, this study seeks to evaluate the extent of stroke-related knowledge and perceptions among Church leaders in Delta Central senatorial district, South-South Nigeria. This study is vital as people’s health-related decisions can be influenced by their religious/traditional perceptions, and this can be influenced by their religious leader’s knowledge of the situation as well, thus impacting both themselves and the public. Methodology: A cross-sectional descriptive research design, with  a multi-stage sampling technique, was used in this research work (n=414).  Results: Data from this study revealed that strokerelated knowledge was good, with the major signs/symptoms identified included weakness of the arm and leg (91.3%), while the main risk factor (RF) identified was hypertension (85.9%). Generally, the respondents recorded positive perception, with 58.5% agreeing that stroke results from unhealthy lifestyles such as drinking and smoking, still the study population upholds some religious/traditional perceptions such as persistent fasting and  prayers can heal a stroke patient (54.1%), stroke is caused by a spiritual arrow sent through diabolic means by witches/wizards ( 49.8%). In response to stroke emergencies, 64.5% people agreed to take the victim to a hospital, while 21.50% agreed to take the victim to a traditional healer. Conclusion: The study revealed that despite the good knowledge of stroke among the study population, more awareness programs are still required to shape their knowledge and perception better.