UTH CUTS STROKE DEATHS FROM NEARLY 50% TO BELOW 10% FOLLOWING LAUNCH OF ZAMBIA’S FIRST DEDICATED STROKE UNITThe University Teaching Hospital (Adult Hospital) Has Reduced Stroke-Related Deaths From Nearly 50 Percent To Below 10 Percent, Following The Establishment Of Zambia’s First Dedicated Stroke Unit In 2023.
Speaking During World Stroke Day Commemorations Under The Theme “Bringing Advocacy And Awareness Together: Act Fast,” Uth Senior Medical Superintendent Dr. Charles Mbewe Said Stroke Remains One Of Zambia’s Leading Causes Of Death, Often Affecting People In Their 30s And 40s.
He Said The Decline In Mortality Follows Increased Investment In Neurology Training And Innovation. Since 2018, The Postgraduate Neurology Programme Has Produced 18 Neurologists, Including Three Paediatric Specialists, With 11 More In Training.
The Uth Stroke Unit Has Trained Over 70 Nurses, Up From 30 In Its First Year, And Is Serving As A Model For Similar Facilities Being Set Up At Levy Mwanawasa, Ndola, And Kitwe Teaching Hospitals.
Dr. Mbewe Said Uth Is Now Offering Thrombolysis, A Clot-Dissolving Treatment That Saves Lives If Administered Early. He Also Disclosed That Over 500 Health Workers Have Benefited From Remote Neurology Training Through Project Echo.
He Announced That Uth, In Partnership With U.S. Universities, Is Finalizing A Modern Stroke Unit Set To Open Before The End Of The Year.
He Has Since Noted That Uth Remains Committed To Advancing Stroke Care And Saving More Zambian Lives Through Early Intervention And Innovation.
By: Augustine Kapambwe
Source: Sun FM