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Stroke Prevention in Ghana: Tips from Mytle Health

November 13, 2025

Recent findings from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2023 report have sent shockwaves through the health community. For the first time, stroke has overtaken malaria and other infections to become Ghana’s leading cause of death. making stroke prevention in Ghana more urgent than ever. The report shows that stroke deaths have risen by 4.4% over the past decade, a worrying trend that demands immediate attention from every Ghanaian household.

At Mytle Health, we believe that knowledge is the first step to prevention. Let’s break down what this means and, more importantly, what we can all do to change this story.

Understanding Stroke

A stroke, sometimes called a “brain attack,” happens when blood flow to the brain is blocked or a blood vessel bursts. When this happens, brain cells start to die within minutes due to a lack of oxygen.

There are two main types of strokes:

  • Ischemic Stroke: Caused by a blockage (accounts for 85% of all strokes)
  • Hemorrhagic Stroke: Caused by a burst blood vessel

In Ghana, stroke is especially serious because 27% of adults live with high blood pressure, the leading cause of stroke. Many people are unaware of their condition until it’s too late.

Key Risk Factors in Ghana

Risk Factors of Stroke

Stroke is not caused by one single thing; it’s the result of several lifestyle and health factors combined. Common causes include:

  • High blood pressure (hypertension): The silent killer that damages blood vessels over time.
  • Diabetes and high cholesterol: Both increase the risk of blocked arteries.
  • Smoking and alcohol use: Increase clot formation and weaken the heart and blood vessels.
  • Poor diet and physical inactivity: Processed foods, high salt, and sugary drinks raise stroke risk.

The GBD study also shows that stroke is affecting younger Ghanaians more than ever before — especially those under 50. This shift highlights the need for early screening and lifestyle changes across all age groups.

Recognize the Signs — Act FAST!

signs of stroke

When a stroke occurs, every minute counts. Knowing the signs could save a life. Remember FAST:

  • F – Face: Is one side of the face drooping?
  • A – Arm: Is one arm weak or numb?
  • S – Speech: Is speech slurred or hard to understand?
  • T – Time: Call for help immediately and get to the nearest hospital.

In Ghana’s busy cities, reaching a hospital may take time, so recognition and quick action make all the difference.

Stroke Prevention in Ghana: What You Can Do

troke prevention

The good news? Up to 80% of strokes are preventable. Here are practical steps everyone can take:

  1. Check your blood pressure regularly. Keep it below 140/90 mmHg. Free screenings are available at most CHPS compounds and NHIS clinics.
  2. Eat smart. Enjoy Ghanaian meals rich in beans, kontomire, garden eggs, and fruits like pawpaw, mango, and banana. Reduce salt, oil, and sugar.
  3. Move more. Brisk walks, dancing, or even sweeping daily for 30–45 minutes helps lower stroke risk.
  4. Quit smoking and limit alcohol. Even small reductions make a big difference.
  5. Screen for diabetes and cholesterol annually. Prevention starts with awareness.

Community Effort and National Action

Preventing stroke is not only a personal responsibility — it requires community and government action. Churches, workplaces, and schools can organize health talks and blood pressure checks. The Ghana Health Service continues to promote the FAST campaign to raise awareness nationwide.

At Mytle Health, we’re committed to supporting these efforts by bringing reliable preventive healthcare directly to your loved ones in Ghana.

The Mytle Health Call to Action

Stroke may now be Ghana’s deadliest killer, but together, we can reverse this trend.

✅ Get screened today. Contact Mytle Health for a preventive healthcare package for your loved ones in Ghana, including free consultations.
✅ Join our next health webinar to learn more about stroke prevention and healthy living by following us on our social media for updates.


✅ Partner with us to organise community awareness programs — because saving lives starts with awareness.

Let’s take action today for a healthier Ghana


Source: GhanaWeb (2025) – “Stroke becomes Ghana’s deadliest killer – GBD 2025”
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