Factors Influencing Stroke Prevention Behaviors Among Patients with Chronic Diseases at Suwannaphum, Primary Care Cluste, Chaoprayayommarat Hospital, Suphanburi Province

Abstract

          This study was a cross-sectional descriptive research aimed at investigating the factors influencing stroke prevention behaviors among patients with chronic diseases. A total of 252 participants were purposively selected from registered chronic disease patients receiving care at the Suwannaphum Primary Care Cluste. Data collection was conducted from June to November 2023 using a structured questionnaire consisting of five parts: (1) personal factors, (2) knowledge about stroke, (3) individual perception factors, including perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived benefits, and perceived barriers, (4) social support (including stroke-related information, family support, and support from public health personnel), and (5) stroke prevention behaviors. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency and percentage), Pearson correlation coefficients, and stepwise multiple regression analysis.

           The results revealed that social support from family (r = 0.487), perceived benefits of stroke prevention (r = 0.398), knowledge about stroke (r = 0.382), and support from public health personnel (r = 0.325) were significantly correlated with stroke prevention behaviors. These factors could statistically significantly predict stroke prevention behaviors among chronic disease patients attending the Suwannaphum Primary Care Cluste, Chaoprayayommarat Hospital, Suphanburi Province, with a predictive power of 39.9% (p < 0.05)

           Recommendation: There should be continuous education for patients with chronic diseases regarding warning signs and management of stroke, as well as the risk factors associated with the disease. This will help promote sustainable behavioral changes in stroke prevention.