Raising awareness about stroke symptoms among children and adolescents

Abstract

Studies aimed at raising awareness of various diseases among the population are becoming more relevant now. Different educational programs for the rapid recognition of stroke symptoms can be aimed at educating children and adolescents. Objective - to investigate the results of STOP-STROKE lessons at Moscow schools. Subject and methods. The Youth Council, Moscow Healthcare Department (MHD), in collaboration with the ORBI foundation gave open STOP-STROKE lessons among the pupils of Moscow schools. The investigation included the results of educating 29,653 4-10-form pupils who completed a specially designed questionnaire before and after the lecture that explained the main symptoms of stroke, as well as the actions to be taken when the latter was suspected. The lecture included the mnemonic test UDAR (blow) (U for smile, D for movement, A for aphasia, D for decision). Results. It was found that after education, there was better knowledge about stroke symptoms (aphasia, facial muscle weakness, and limb weakness) and actions to be taken when stroke was suspected. There was a significant increase in the number of children who correctly identified the three symptoms of the disease. Conclusion. The investigation demonstrated the effectiveness of the program. After being educated, the children can more quickly call for an ambulance if stroke occurs in a family member. Further investigations are needed to evaluate the effectiveness of these lectures, including in the long-term.