Title

Stroke Awareness and Use of National Emergency Number in Nigeria

Background and Aims

Given the prevalence of stroke cases in Nigeria, stroke awareness and timely emergency care are crucial for saving lives. However, the public's understanding of strokes and the functionality of the national emergency number, 112, remain unclear. This study aims to establish baseline awareness levels regarding strokes and the functionality of the emergency response number across Nigeria.

Methodology

A survey (with sections: Socio-demographics, Awareness of the national emergency number, and Stroke awareness) targeted Nigerian residents aged 20+ and was distributed via snowball sampling. An initial sample of 15 participants was selected based on convenience and access to large networks, who referred other participants who met the criteria to complete the survey.

Results

The study included 214 respondents aged 20-70, with a gender distribution of 52.34% male and 47.66% female. The majority were from urban (70.56%) and semi-urban (22.43%) areas. Awareness of the national emergency number 112 was moderate, with only 62.14% of participants aware of its existence, and just 60.82% perceived it as functional. A significant 87.38% expressed concerns over the inadequacy of emergency medical services in their towns. Although 86.11% correctly identified a stroke as either a blood clot or bleeding in the brain, a mere 38.89% would call the emergency number in response to a stroke. This is despite 95.56% acknowledging the severity of stroke and the need for immediate action. Notably, 97.78% of respondents believed that a program presenting stroke symptoms in local languages and linking them to the emergency number 112 would be beneficial.

Conclusions

The study reveals a lack of awareness regarding the national emergency number and limited knowledge on responding to strokes among Nigerians. Urgent improvements in public education efforts and emergency medical services infrastructure are essential to address the pressing issue of stroke care in Nigeria.