Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Ghanaian Times
Published on 2024-02-27 07:21:26
Stroke has been identified as the leading cause of deaths at the Eastern Regional Hospital, according to the Medical Director, Dr Arko Akoto Ampaw. In the year 2023, there were 183 deaths due to stroke, representing an increase of 9.8% from the previous year. This trend of increasing deaths from stroke is concerning, as it accounted for 8.6% of deaths in 2022 and 11.3% in 2021.
During the 2023 Annual Performance Review meeting in Koforidua, Dr Akoto Ampaw highlighted the shift in mortality patterns from communicable diseases to non-communicable diseases. Lifestyle-related illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity are now the leading causes of death, rather than diseases like malaria and HIV. These non-communicable diseases are resulting in high mortality rates, with hypertension and diabetes being identified as the main contributors to organ damage.
Dr Akoto Ampaw emphasized the importance of early detection and management of hypertension and diabetes to prevent strokes. He explained that many people were unaware of their condition because they did not undergo screening or regular check-ups. Hypertension, in particular, is a silent killer as symptoms may not be present until complications arise. Regular blood pressure checks and healthy lifestyle choices can help in preventing strokes and reducing mortality rates.
The Medical Director emphasized the importance of routine hospital visits for blood pressure checks and the need for a healthy diet to prevent stroke. By taking proactive measures, individuals can avoid being blindsided by stroke-related complications and reduce the number of deaths attributed to the disease.
Although HIV did not feature in the top causes of deaths or admissions at the hospital, Dr Akoto Ampaw commended the efforts of individuals taking anti-retroviral drugs seriously. He encouraged continued vigilance in managing HIV to eradicate related deaths in the country.
In conclusion, the increasing trend of deaths due to stroke at the Eastern Regional Hospital is a cause for concern. Dr Akoto Ampaw stressed the importance of early detection, regular check-ups, and healthy lifestyle choices to prevent strokes. By raising awareness about the risks of hypertension and diabetes, individuals can take control of their health and reduce the burden of stroke-related deaths in the region. It is vital for the public to prioritize their health and well-being to avoid falling victim to preventable diseases.
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