ANATOMY-INFORMED PUBLIC HEALTH SURVEILLANCE OF STROKE OUTCOMES IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICAN POPULATIONS: A STUDY OF NIGERIA

Abstract

This study investigates the role of cerebral vascular anatomical variations in influencing stroke outcomes in Nigeria, with an emphasis on ethnic diversity and its implications for public health surveillance. Stroke remains a leading cause of death and disability in Sub-Saharan Africa, especially in Nigeria, where the burden has risen due to urbanization and inadequate stroke care systems. The study proposes an anatomy-informed public health surveillance approach that integrates neuroimaging data into stroke monitoring to address gaps in understanding stroke severity and recovery. By focusing on Nigeria’s ethnic diversity, particularly the Hausa-Fulani, Yoruba, and Igbo populations, the research explores how variations in vascular anatomy, such as differences in the Circle of Willis, collateral circulation, and arterial configurations, affect stroke outcomes. The study highlights that these anatomical factors, coupled with traditional stroke risk factors, contribute to ethnic disparities in stroke severity and mortality. The findings suggest that incorporating anatomical data into stroke surveillance can improve risk stratification, enhance stroke prevention, and inform targeted interventions. This approach supports the concept of precision public health, advocating for personalized, evidence-based interventions in managing stroke outcomes across diverse populations in Sub-Saharan Africa.