Post-stroke depression in Ghana: Characteristics and correlates

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Psychiatry
• Public Health

Background:

• Poststroke depression (PSD) significantly impacts stroke recovery, quality of life, and mortality.
• Limited data exists on PSD in sub-Saharan Africa.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence and predictors of depression among Ghanaian stroke survivors.

Main Methods:

• 200 stroke survivors were assessed using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) and Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS).
• Demographic, clinical data, stroke severity (Modified Rankin Scale), and quality of life were collected.
• Logistic regression was used to identify predictors of depression.

Main Results:

• 36.5% of survivors met criteria for depression on both scales.
• Increased disability (Modified Rankin Scale) and being divorced were significant predictors of depression.
• Depression was associated with significant reductions in physical, psycho-social, cognitive, and eco-social quality of life domains.

Conclusions:

• Nearly 40% of Ghanaian stroke survivors experience clinically significant depression.
• There is an urgent need for evidence-based, culturally tailored interventions for PSD, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).