NSP President Calls for Enhanced Stroke Rehabilitation in Nigeria

The NSP president stated that Nigeria's battle against heart disease and stroke requires more than medical intervention, particularly emphasizing the role of physiotherapy in rehabilitation. The theme for this year’s World Physiotherapy Day focuses on physical activity's role in preventing and managing cardiovascular diseases.

Stroke, a prevalent cardiovascular condition, significantly impacts communities, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. While some tertiary health institutions, like the University College Hospital, Ibadan, have established stroke units, the overall availability of cardiac rehabilitation services in Nigeria is limited.

There is no national data on the number of cardiac rehabilitation centers, and the existing services are insufficient for the growing burden of cardiovascular diseases. Barriers such as inadequate resources, transportation costs, and a lack of rehabilitation policy hinder effective rehabilitation and reintegration of stroke survivors into society.