Stroke Risk and Knowledge in Women with Prehypertension

고혈압 전 단계 성인여성의 뇌졸중 위험과 뇌졸중 지식

Purpose: This study was undertaken to identify stroke risk with risk factors and knowledge of stork in women with prehypertension. Methods: A total of 46 pre-hypertensive women in urban area aged 44.8 (SD 11.4) yr old in average were selected by a convenient sampling. Demographic data, risk factors, and knowledge of stroke were assessed through face to face interview. Stroke risk scores were calculated based on points given to age, systolic blood pressure, smoking, DM, and heart disease in Framingham stroke risk score. Data were analyzed by SPSS WIN 12.0 using descriptive statistics, two sample t-test, and Pearson's correlation coefficient. Results: The mean systolic blood pressure of participants was 133.11 mmHg, and HDL cholesterol was lower than the recommended level, although rest of physiologic risk factors were within normal. Of the participants, 82% did not do regular physical activity and 75% did not control fat intake persistently. Mean stroke risk points and knowledge scores were 4.48 and 29.15, respectively, which were significantly different between women with and without persistent controlling fat intake. Conclusion: Results indicate stroke prevention intervention for prehypertensive women should address comprehensively modifying lifestyle as well as physiologic factors, and information focusing on stroke risk factors and warning symptoms.