Assessment of Stroke Knowledge and Perceptions Within the Palestinian Community: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Mohammad Abuawad, Heba Faqih, Hayat Nayfeh, Deema Issa, Ahmad Rjoub, Mustafa Ghanim, Malik Alqub, Majdi DwikatABSTRACT
Background and Aim
Stroke is a leading cause of disability and mortality worldwide and represents an increasing public health concern in low‐ and middle‐income countries, including Palestine. Timely detection and immediate intervention are critical for reducing stroke‐related morbidity and mortality. The present study investigates the level of stroke knowledge and its determinants within the Palestinian community.
Methods
A cross‐sectional, structured, questionnaire‐based study of the Palestinian community was conducted from June to December 2025. Participants recruited through a convenience sample technique answered the questionnaire in both electronic and print versions. Stroke knowledge was scored from 0 to 35, with good knowledge defined as ≥ 50%. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, Chi‐square test, and binary logistic regression with stroke knowledge as a binary outcome (good vs. poor). Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.
Results
Among 1539 participants (60.6% female; 58.2% aged 18–29), 54.1% demonstrated good stroke knowledge, with a mean score of 18.35 ± 8.97 out of 35. Notable knowledge gaps were identified regarding risk factors (40.4% with good knowledge), early symptoms (46.7%), and outcomes (47.7%). Hypertension (70.6%) and smoking (55.9%) were the most frequently recognized risk factors. Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that discussing stroke risk with a healthcare provider (aOR = 3.20, 95% CI = [2.34–4.37]; p < 0.001), higher education (aOR = 2.67, 95% CI = [1.37–5.20]; p = 0.004), higher income (aOR = 2.83, 95% CI = [1.79–4.47]; p < 0.001), and having a relative with stroke (aOR = 2.15, 95% CI = [1.64–2.83]; p < 0.001) were associated with greater stroke knowledge. In contrast, being married (aOR = 0.67, 95% CI = [0.46–0.97]; p = 0.036), being employed (aOR = 0.64, 95% CI = [0.47–0.87]; p = 0.004), or being a current smoker (aOR = 0.70, 95% CI = [0.52–0.95]; p = 0.02) were associated with lower odds of good stroke knowledge. The internet and social media were the primary sources of information (51.7%).
Conclusion
Stroke symptoms, risk factors, and treatment are poorly understood in the Palestinian community. These findings highlight the need for coordinated public health education and community‐based awareness measures.