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 prehypertensive 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.