Knowledge and Clinical Practices of Healthcare Workers in Stroke Prevention: Evidence From a Nigerian Hospital

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of death globally, with stroke identified as a significant contributor to the growing burden of mortality and disability. Stroke, a major component of CVDs, has experienced a sharp rise in incidence and fatality in the past two decades, accounting for approximately 10% of all global deaths and causing the loss of over 44 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) annually. The situation is particularly alarming in sub-Saharan Africa, where the highest age-standardized incidence rates are recorded. In Nigeria, stroke poses a critical public health challenge, with high case fatality rates ranging from 28% to 37% and long-term functional disability rates nearing 61%. These outcomes not only affect survivors but also place a significant emotional and economic burden on caregivers and the health system. The disease's preventable nature underscores the need for robust awareness, timely diagnosis, and effective prevention strategies among healthcare professionals and the general population. Aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) target of reducing premature mortality from non-communicable diseases by one-third by 2030, there is a pressing need for improved health system financing, capacity-building of the healthcare workforce, and universal access to quality healthcare services. This paper underscores the critical importance of stroke prevention as a public health priority and the role of healthcare workers in implementing effective, evidence-based preventive practices, particularly in resource-constrained settings like Nigeria.