srjcmsSRJCMSSRJCMS2788-885110.47310/srjcms.2024.v04.i02.015Awareness and Perception of Stroke Symptoms and Immediate Response Measures in Shimla: A Community-Based StudyNiyatiBansalManmeetSinghKhalsaJunior Resident, Internal Medicine, Sri Ramachandra Medical College, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research , Chennai.Junior Resident, Pediatrics, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University(AMU).Background:Stroke remains a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, with timely recognition of symptoms and immediate response measures being critical to improving outcomes. In underserved regions like Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, disparities in healthcare access and public knowledge exacerbate delays in recognizing and managing stroke symptoms, increasing the burden of disease.Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from August to October 2024 among 400 Shimla residents aged 18 and above. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire covering stroke symptoms (e.g., FAST acronym), response measures, risk factors, and prevention strategies. Awareness scores were categorized as Very Good (>80%), Good (60–79%), Fair (41–59%), and Poor (<40%). Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and cross-tabulations to explore correlations between socio-demographic factors and knowledge levels.Results: Among 400 participants, 51.50% were female, 60.50% resided in rural areas, and 31.25% were aged 26–35 years. While 62.00% identified smoking as a key stroke risk factor and 61.50% recognized blood pressure control as a preventive measure, only 44.00% were aware of the critical 4.5-hour treatment window. Symptom recognition was moderate, with 45.50% identifying facial drooping, 51.00% recognizing arm weakness, and 46.50% noting speech difficulty as key indicators of stroke. Knowledge of immediate response, such as calling emergency services, was also limited (47.25%). Overall, 21.50% demonstrated comprehensive knowledge, scoring "Very Good," while the majority scored "Good" (36.00%) or "Fair" (32.00%), underscoring substantial knowledge gaps.Conclusion:This study highlights significant gaps in stroke awareness, particularly in recognizing symptoms and understanding the urgency of timely response. Rural and less-educated populations were the most underserved, indicating a need for targeted community-based health campaigns. Public health strategies emphasizing the FAST acronym, timely intervention, and stroke prevention are critical to reducing morbidity and mortality in Shimla.