Awareness and perception of the traditional methods of stroke management among stroke survivors in selected health facilities and traditional centers: a mixed method study

Traditional methods of stroke management are increasingly used in sub-Saharan Africa and encompass a wide range of practices.

To determine the level of awareness and perception of the traditional methods of stroke management among stroke survivors in Anambra State.

This study was a mixed-method embedded design (a research methodology combining qualitative and quantitative approaches in a single research) involving 106 stroke survivors recruited from selected health facilities and traditional stroke management centers in Anambra State. Data was summarized using descriptive statistics of mean, frequency, and standard deviation. The relationship between the sociodemographic variables and the study variables was analyzed using the Chi-square test. A structured questionnaire was used to assess stroke survivors’ awareness and perception of traditional stroke management, with statistical significance set at α = 0.05Thematic analysis was used to analyze qualitative data.

Of the participants, 51 (48.1%) had moderate knowledge, while 85 (80.2%) demonstrated a positive perception of traditional methods of stroke management. There was a statistically significant association between awareness of traditional methods of stroke management and gender (X² = 7.9, df = 2, p = .019). Thematic analysis shows an overall high awareness and perception of the traditional method of management. Conclusion: The participants have high awareness, positive perception and preference for traditional method of stroke management. Gender appears to influence participants’ awareness and perception of traditional stroke management.