Stroke services in Africa: What is there and what is needed

Abstract

Background: Over the past few years, the incidence and prevalence of stroke has been rising in most African countries and has been reported as one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. To study this problem, we need to realize the quality and availability of stroke care services as a priori to improve them.

Methods and results: In this study, we investigated the availability of different stroke-related services in 17 countries from different African regions. An online survey was conducted and fulfilled by stroke specialists and included primary prevention, acute management, diagnostic tools, medications, postdischarge services, and stroke registries. The results showed that although medications for secondary prevention are available, yet many other services are lacking in various countries.

Conclusion: This study displays the deficient aspects of stroke services in African countries as a preliminary step toward active corrective procedures for the improvement of stroke-related health services.

Keywords: Africa; Stroke specialists; active corrective procedures; postdischarge services; stroke care services; stroke services; stroke-related health services.