Abstract: Objective To investigate the knowledge of stroke risk factors in the families of patients with stroke. Methods 1100 family members of stroke patients hospitalized in 10 hospitals of various levels in Gansu were investigated with self-designed questionnaire. Results Most families knew that the hypertension was a risk factor for stroke, and there was no significant difference among ages. 7.32% of the families knew all the 6 common risk factors for stroke, and 14.23% knew none of them. Hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes as the risk factors for stroke was known most in the families finished higher education, and different with the education levels. Heart disease, smoking, consumption of alcohol as risk factors for stroke was known poorly whatever the careers of the families. Conclusion The families of patients with stroke know less about common risk factors for stroke in Gansu.

Key words: stroke, family members, risk factors, awareness, Gansu