6th Edition of Neurology World Conference 2026

Abstract

Stroke is one of the leading causes of mortality and long-term disability worldwide. Early recognition of stroke symptoms and timely medical intervention are crucial for improving patient outcomes. Public awareness regarding stroke warning signs and risk factors remains an important component of stroke prevention and management. To assess the knowledge and awareness regarding stroke symptoms, risk factors, and emergency response among the general population in India, a cross-sectional questionnaire-based online study conducted was conducted. As per the study, 93% had heard about stroke and 93.6% considered stroke a medical emergency. Approximately 89.6% believed that early treatment improves outcomes in stroke patients. The brain was correctly identified as the organ primarily affected in stroke by 67% participants. Regarding stroke symptoms, sudden weakness of face/ arm/ leg was recognized by 73.7% participants, difficulty speaking by 67%, and loss of balance by 58.7%. However, awareness regarding FAST warning signs was comparatively low, with only 48.3% participants reporting familiarity with FAST and 57.5% correctly identifying “F” as Face drooping. High blood pressure was identified as a major risk factor by 84.1% participants, while awareness regarding diabetes, smoking, obesity, alcohol intake, and physical inactivity was comparatively lower. Social media emerged as the most common source of information regarding stroke (51.1%). Although general awareness regarding stroke and its emergency nature was satisfactory among participants, knowledge regarding FAST warning signs and several modifiable risk factors remained inadequate. The findings highlight the need for targeted public health education programs to improve early recognition and prevention of stroke in the Indian population.