The Northern Regional Hospital, commonly referred to as the Tamale Central Hospital, has observed a rise in stroke cases, leading health officials to advocate for regular medical examinations to aid in the prevention of this condition.
Dr. (Med) Richard Anthony, the Medical Director of the hospital, stated that the facility documents no fewer than 20 stroke cases each year, with an increasing number of young individuals being affected.
“On average, within a year, we see about 20 cases, though I don’t have the exact statistics off-hand. But as we know, stroke is very common and does not only affect the elderly as previously thought, young people are increasingly being diagnosed,” he said.
During a donation event organised by the Union of Professional Nurses and Midwives to support the establishment of a stroke unit at the hospital, Dr. Anthony highlighted hypertension as a significant contributor to stroke, emphasising the importance of regular blood pressure checks.
Yussif Fitter, the Tamale Metro Chairman of the Union of Professional Nurses and Midwives, on behalf of the National President of the union, donated over GH₵ 23,000 in cash, along with an air conditioner to assist the hospital in the creation of the stroke unit.
In his address, he voiced his concerns regarding the increasing prevalence of stroke, especially among the youth, pointing out that it is depriving the nation of its productive resources.
“In the past, stroke was largely associated with the affluent and the elderly, but today we are seeing young people, even those under 30, being affected. This is worrying because it robs the country of its productive workforce,” he noted.
He also urged generous individuals and organisations to contribute to the hospital’s initiatives aimed at enhancing healthcare services and making specialised care more accessible to the community.
