Stroke-Related Knowledge among Uninsured Latino Immigrants in Durham County, North Carolina

Background: Knowledge of stroke risk factors and symptoms is a necessary prerequisite for improving prevention and reducing treatment delays. Little is known about stroke-related knowledge among the US immigrant Latino population. Methods: A previously published stroke knowledge survey was translated into Spanish and administered orally to a convenience sample of 76 Latino Spanish-speaking clients of a community-based health care management program for uninsured residents of Durham County, North Carolina, between January and March 2007. Results: Of respondents, 81% could not correctly name a single stroke risk factor, 57% could not correctly identify a stroke symptom, and only 45% said they would telephone emergency services (dial 9-1-1), call an ambulance, or go to a hospital if they or a family member were having a stroke. However, 80% of respondents knew that a stroke could be prevented, and 86% knew that a stroke could be treated. Conclusion: Stroke-related knowledge may be particularly poor in the uninsured Latino immigrant population. Novel approaches will be needed to improve awareness and prevention in this high-risk group.