The Vision for Accelerated Sustainable Development-Ghana, in collaboration with the Ghana NCD Alliance and the Stroke Association Support Network, commemorated this year’s World Stroke Day.

The 2024 observance, themed “Stroke: Know the Risks, Act Fast,” highlighted the urgent need for education, prevention, and timely intervention to minimise stroke-related risks, particularly in Ghana.

In a joint statement, Mr Labram M. Musah, Executive Director of Vision for Accelerated Sustainable Development-Ghana and National Coordinator of the Ghana NCD Alliance, urged the Ghanaian government, healthcare providers, and civil society to take decisive action on stroke prevention and management.

“As we observe World Stroke Day 2024, let us commit as a nation to raise awareness, improve healthcare access, and promote healthy lifestyles to combat the growing prevalence of strokes in Ghana,” the statement read. “Together, we can foster a society where individuals are informed and equipped to recognise strokes early and take preventive measures through healthy living.”

The statement noted that stroke has emerged as a significant health crisis in Ghana, contributing heavily to the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). "Recent studies show that stroke accounts for approximately 15 per cent of hospital admissions and 16 per cent of deaths annually in Ghana, with a rise in incidents among younger adults due to increasing risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, unhealthy lifestyle choices—including tobacco and alcohol use—and urbanisation."

The statement further observed that many Ghanaians remain unaware of key risk factors and early warning signs of stroke. Educating the public to recognise symptoms like sudden numbness or weakness, confusion, difficulty speaking, and severe headaches is crucial for ensuring timely treatment.

It highlighted that access to quality healthcare services, particularly emergency care in rural areas, is hindered by transportation challenges, inadequate facilities, and a shortage of healthcare professionals, which worsens the issue. “It is also important to note that risk factors such as high blood pressure, obesity, smoking, and physical inactivity exacerbate stroke prevalence. Public health initiatives that promote healthier lifestyles and routine health screenings are essential for prevention,” the statement added.

The statement also called on the public to avoid stigmatising stroke, as this can discourage individuals from seeking prompt medical attention, stressing that stroke is a serious medical emergency.

The statement advocated for establishing comprehensive rehabilitation programmes focusing on physical, occupational, and speech therapy to support stroke survivors.

Mr Ad Adams Ebenezer, Executive Director of the Stroke Association Support Network, underscored the need for government action to make rehabilitation accessible and affordable for stroke survivors to reduce out-of-pocket expenses when seeking care.