Stroke prevention strategies in Africa: a scoping review protocol

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this scoping review is to map the existing strategies on methods and interventions for primary and secondary stroke prevention in Africa. Introduction: Stroke is among the leading causes of disability globally. African nations have higher stroke mortality and case fatality rates than the industrialized world, leading to significant social and financial costs, which necessitates efficient preventative methods. Despite the high prevalence of stroke in Africa, the scope of stroke-prevention strategies in Africa is unknown. Consequently, mapping diverse approaches to preventing stroke in Africa could provide direction for future research into stroke prevention in Africa. Inclusion criteria: This review will incorporate studies that report methods or strategies used for stroke prevention in Africa. All primary and gray literature will be considered for inclusion. No language or date restrictions will be applied. Methods: The JBI methodological framework for scoping reviews will be adopted for this scoping review. A 3-step search strategy consisting of an initial limited search, a full search, and a screening of the reference lists of all included articles will be undertaken. Databases such as CINAHL, Scopus, PubMed, PEDRo, DORIS, Global Health, Web of Science, and Open Access Thesis and Dissertations will be searched. All search results will be screened, and relevant data extracted by 2 independent reviewers. The findings will be presented in the final scoping review and illustrated in a Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) flow diagram. Review registration: Figshare https://figshare.com/articles/journal_contribution/Stroke_prevention_strategies_in_Africa_a_scoping_review_protocol/21679904