ABSTRACT NUMBER: ESOC2026A371 AWARENESS OF STROKE RISK FACTORS AMONGST YOUNG BLACK AND MINORITY ETHNIC ADULTS: A COMMUNITY BASED MIXED-METHOD STUDY

Abstract Background and aims Stroke incidence among adults under 65 is increasing worldwide, with Black and South Asian populations particularly at risk of earlier onset. This community-based study explored stroke awareness, understanding of risk factors, and perceived barriers and facilitators to prevention among younger Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) adults. Methods An exploratory convergent mixed-methods design was employed, combining 6 focus group interviews (n=43 participants) and a questionnaire (n=241) with residents aged under 65 in a London borough. Focus group data were analysed thematically, while quantitative data were explored using descriptive statistics and regression modelling to examine associations between overall stroke awareness, risk factor knowledge (common, less common, and female-specific), sex, ethnicity, familiarity with stroke causes, and belief in stroke preventability. Findings were integrated using joint display analysis. Results Participants demonstrated strong awareness of common risk factors such as hypertension, but limited awareness of diabetes, atrial fibrillation, kidney disease, socioeconomic factors, air pollution, ethnicity, and female-specific risks. Regression analysis showed females had higher awareness than males (β = 1.46; 95% CI 0.054–2.871; p = 0.042). Ethnicity was significantly associated with awareness (p=0.028), with Asian participants scoring lower than Black participants (β = –2.07; 95% CI –3.592 to –0.547). Familiarity with stroke causes and belief in preventability strongly predicted awareness. Qualitative analysis identified that community voices have a strong desire for culturally tailored education Conclusions Younger BME adults show interest in stroke prevention but lack awareness of their elevated risk. Culturally sensitive, accessible, and relatable education strategies are essential to enhance stroke prevention in these communities. Conflict of interest Siobhan Mc Lernon: Study funded by The Burdett Trust for Nursing