It is possible to improve risk perception in the stroke population by delivering information
and awareness campaign (Sullivan et al., 2008). Subjective risk factor perception is important
component to the motivation to change unhealthy lifestyle. The health belief model suggests
‘risk perception’ is a key element to understanding how a person becomes motivated to
change their behaviour. The health belief model holds that individual perceptions and
modifying factors are predictors of the likelihood of action (Figure 1). Patients’ choice to
make a healthy change is motivated by their knowledge about the risks of susceptibility
towards the disease and knowledge about the seriousness of the disease. Patients’ willingness
to change usually influences by their understanding of the benefits of change and of their
perceived of the barriers to change. After a person has had a stroke, they need to be aware of
the threat or seriousness of their risk for a second stroke.