The Know Your Numbers (KYN) program 2008 to 2010: impact on knowledge and health promotion behavior among participants

Background Since 2007, the National Stroke Foundation in Australia has undertaken a community-based 'Know Your Numbers' program on blood pressure and other stroke risk factors. Aims The aims of this study are to assess, in a sample of registrants participating in a three-month follow-up survey, retention of knowledge of risk factors and health conditions associated with hypertension, and whether those who were advised to see their doctor sought treatment or performed other health promotion actions. Methods Various organizations (mainly pharmacies) were recruited to offer a 'free' standardized blood pressure check and educational resources for one-week/year between 2008 and 2010. Data collection was done thru registration log and detailed questionnaires for a sample of registrants at baseline and three-months. Descriptive statistics were used for comparison of baseline and three-month data. Results There were 59 817 registrants over three-years. A total of 2044/2283 (90%) registrants completed a baseline survey (66% female, 50% aged >55 years); 43% had blood pressure >= 140/90 mmHg whereby 32% were unaware of their blood pressure status. Follow-up surveys were obtained from 510/805 (63%) baseline participants who provided consent. At three-months, improved knowledge was found for 9 of 11 risk factors for hypertension (e.g. lack of exercise baseline 73%; three-months 85%, P < 0.001). Knowledge for all the health conditions assessed that are associated with hypertension improved (e.g. stroke baseline 72%; three-months 87%, P < 0.001, heart attack baseline 69%; three-months 84%, P < 0.001). All respondents reported at least one health promotion action. Among 141/510 advised to visit their doctor, 114 (81%) did. Conclusion Know Your Numbers is a successful health promotion program and encourages people to be reviewed by their doctor.