Abuja, Nigeria – As the world marked World Stroke Day yesterday, medical experts have called on Nigerians to adopt healthy lifestyle practices and seek prompt medical attention to curb the rising incidence of stroke in the country.
Speaking to our correspondent, Pharmacist Anderson Tony, Chairman of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria, Akwa Ibom State branch, emphasized the importance of recognizing stroke symptoms early. He noted that common signs include numbness or weakness on one side of the body, confusion, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, and vision problems. He added that high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and excessive alcohol consumption are among the leading causes of stroke.
This year’s World Stroke Day, themed “Every Minute Counts,” underscores how every passing second during a stroke results in further brain damage. Pharmacist Tony highlighted that while stroke treatment in Nigeria has improved, several challenges—such as religious beliefs, late patient presentation, inadequate diagnostic facilities, high treatment costs, and shortage of trained specialists—still hinder effective care.
He called for greater public education, improved health infrastructure, and the inclusion of stroke management in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to make treatment more affordable and accessible.
World Stroke Day, observed annually on October 29, seeks to raise awareness about stroke prevention, treatment, and the urgent need for timely medical intervention.