Stroke signs knowledge and factors associated with a delayed hospital arrival of patients with acute stroke in Kinshasa.

Background: Rapid recognition and early medical intervention are essential to reduce stroke-related mortality and long-term disability. This study aimed to evaluate awareness of stroke symptoms/signs and determine factors delaying the hospital arrival of patients with acute stroke in Kinshasa.

Methods: Patients with stroke and/or accompanying family members were interviewed using a standard questionnaire, and their medical records were reviewed.

Stroke services in Africa: What is there and what is needed.

Background: Over the past few years, the incidence and prevalence of stroke has been rising in most African countries and has been reported as one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. To study this problem, we need to realize the quality and availability of stroke care services as a priori to improve them.

Methods And Results: In this study, we investigated the availability of different stroke-related services in 17 countries from different African regions.