World Stroke Day: more cases in Nampula, but fewer deaths
Mozambique's Central Hospital of Nampula saw 30% more strokes this year, while faster diagnosis cut deaths from 48 to 39.
Nampula — The Central Hospital of Nampula in northern Mozambique treated 378 stroke patients between January and September, about 30% more than the 291 it saw in the same months of 2025.
Neurologist Frederico Sebastião gave the figures on World Stroke Day, 29 October. Stroke has risen from the fifth to the second most common reason for admission to the hospital's medical wards, and is its third biggest cause of death.
There is good news in the numbers too. Deaths fell from 48 to 39, which Sebastião put down to quicker diagnosis and earlier treatment. But he said some patients still arrive too late.
Know the signs, act fast
- a drooping face or mouth;
- weakness in an arm or leg;
- trouble speaking or understanding.
Anyone showing these signs needs a hospital immediately. To cut the risk, he advised controlling blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol and weight, not smoking, and avoiding drugs or stimulants not prescribed by a doctor.
Source: AIM via AllAfrica, 29 October 2026.
