World Stroke Day 2024: Ghana urged to take Action on Stroke Prevention and Treatment
Despite stroke's widespread impact, access to quality healthcare remains limited, particularly in rural areas.
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On World Stroke Day 2024, the Vision for Accelerated Sustainable Development, the Ghana NCD Alliance, and the Stroke Association Support Network joined forces to raise awareness about stroke, a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Under the theme “Stroke: Know the Risks, Act Fast,” this year’s campaign highlights the urgent need for education, prevention, and timely intervention to reduce stroke risks in Ghana.
Stroke, a critical health crisis in Ghana, accounts for around 15% of hospital admissions and 16% of deaths annually, with younger adults increasingly affected due to rising risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, tobacco and alcohol use, and urbanization. Many Ghanaians remain unaware of the early warning signs, such as sudden numbness, weakness, confusion, difficulty speaking, and severe headaches, which are vital for early diagnosis and treatment.
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Despite stroke’s widespread impact, access to quality healthcare remains limited, particularly in rural areas. Challenges include inadequate facilities, transportation issues, and a shortage of healthcare professionals. Public health advocates emphasize that improved health initiatives, including lifestyle changes, regular screenings, and comprehensive rehabilitation resources, are essential to reducing stroke prevalence and supporting survivors in recovery.
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“Accessible and affordable rehabilitation is essential for people living with stroke, and we urge the government to address the high out-of-pocket costs for stroke care,” said Ad Adams Ebenezer, Executive Director of the Stroke Association Support Network. He called on the Ghanaian government, healthcare providers, and civil society to take decisive action in stroke prevention and management.
Observing World Stroke Day 2024, advocates stress the importance of building a society where individuals are informed about stroke risks, able to recognize symptoms, and encouraged to adopt healthy lifestyles.
Source: ghananewsonline.com.gh
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