Potential for a comprehensive stroke education: Assessing awareness about stroke among community health workers - A qualitative study from Urban Bangalore, Karnataka, India

Context: The incidence of stroke is evolving to be a major public health issue in recent years. The situation is aggravated by the limited public awareness about its risk factors and treatment procedures. It is important to explore the level of awareness of the Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) about stroke as they work in the community as part of the public healthcare delivery systems. Aims: The aim of this study was to explore the awareness about stroke among the ASHAs through a qualitative study. Settings and Design: The study was conducted in the institution using a cross-sectional qualitative approach. Methods and Material: A focus group discussion with 12 ASHAs from Bengaluru district of Karnataka was conducted. Statistical Analysis Used: Data were analyzed manually through direct content analysis. Results: It was revealed that the ASHAs did not have adequate general awareness about stroke, its causes, and related treatment procedures. The ASHAs overgeneralized the causes to lifestyle factors, such as smoking, drinking, and so on. Conclusions: The study showed the level of awareness of stroke among the ASHAs is inadequate at present, and they would benefit from systematic sensitisation programmes. Limited awareness could lead to failure to identify the early warning signs and appropriate, timely help. A need of a comprehensive educational program to increase their awareness is emphasized.