Abstract: Objective To understand the awareness of early symptoms of stroke patients in Gansu. Methods 1100 stroke patients in neurology and neurosurgery departments in 10 hospitals of different levels in Gansu in 2010 were surveyed by questionnaire. Results The awareness rate of early symptoms of stroke was generally low in all age groups. Conclusion Stroke patients were lack of awareness of early symptoms in Gansu, we should step up publicity efforts to enable more patients to receive early treatment and reduce morbidity and mortality.

Key words: stroke, symptoms, patients, acquaintance