Knowledge of Palestinian University Women Employees About Heart Disease: Across-Sectional Study
Date
2016-09-15
Authors
Ghrayeb, Farid AW
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
International Knowledge Sharing Platform, IISTE
Abstract
Heart disease is the first leading cause of death and disability for women worldwide, yet the condition is largely
preventable and few women perceive themselves at risk. Evidence in the literature supports diminished
awareness of heart disease among women and limited data as to provider knowledge of the current guidelines for
the prevention of heart disease in women. The purpose of this study was to examine the current knowledge levels,
personal risk factors related to heart disease among selected university female employees, and to identify
variables that best predict health-promoting behaviors among university female employees. A descriptive crosssectional
research design was utilized. A stratified sample of 320 Palestinian university females aged 20-58 years
completed a questionnaire developed by the researcher to assess their knowledge of heart disease and to assess
the heart disease risk factors. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. Results: The
sample had an average knowledge score of 45.9% out of a maximum correct score of 100%. Results from data
analysis revealed general knowledge of heart disease was relatively low. The risk factors prevalent among them
included: hypertension (14.6%), diabetes (11.8%), dyslipidemia (11.1%), overweight (21.8%), smoking (19.6%),
and physically inactive (55.4%). Conclusion: Heart disease is the leading cause of death among Palestinians. In
this study, Palestinian university women had poor knowledge of heart disease, and many reported having risk
factors. Evaluation of baseline knowledge of heart disease and specific risk factors is helpful and can guide
tailoring of health prevention strategies to be more effective. Early screening targeting the younger generation is
also important to help detect the risk factors in their earliest stages. The screening results may also induce
individuals to take action.
Description
Keywords
Heart disease , Palestinian , Knowledge , University women , Risk factors