The service of neurology at Touba's Matlaboul Fawzeyni hospital admits around 20 patients monthly for stroke treatment. This situation highlights the difficulties in providing care, particularly the shortage of beds and specialists in the Diourbel region. Dr. El Hadji Mbengue, head of the neurology department, noted this during the World Stroke Day celebrations on October 29, 2026.
According to Dr. Mbengue, the number of hospitalized patients does not reflect the actual needs. Some patients receive emergency care, while others cannot be admitted due to a lack of available beds. The internal medicine department, to which neurology is attached, lacks sufficient capacity to accommodate all stroke victims. As a result, some patients seek treatment at other healthcare facilities in Touba.
The situation is also concerning at the regional level. Cheikh Bamba Diouf, coordinator of the Diourbel cell of the Senegalese Association for Supporting Patients and Families Affected by Stroke, regrets the absence of a neurologist at the regional hospital. Patients are then referred to Touba, Thies, or Dakar for specialized care. Diouf advocates for the recruitment of a neurologist to treat stroke patients at the Diourbel regional hospital.
Beyond the challenges in providing care, the World Stroke Day event focused on prevention. The activity included screenings for hypertension and diabetes. Massamba Thioro Sall, director of the hospital, emphasized the need to combat major risk factors, including hypertension, diabetes, obesity, smoking, and alcohol consumption.
The event was organized in collaboration with the Diourbel cell of the Senegalese Association for Supporting Patients and Families Affected by Stroke. The association aims to raise awareness about stroke and provide support to affected patients and families. The hospital's efforts to address the healthcare needs of the community were also highlighted during the event.
The healthcare challenges in Touba's Matlaboul Fawzeyni hospital are not unique to the region. Similar concerns have been raised about the shortage of neurologists and healthcare resources in other parts of Senegal. The government and healthcare professionals are working to address these issues and improve healthcare services for stroke patients.
The World Stroke Day celebrations served as a reminder of the importance of stroke awareness and prevention. By promoting healthy lifestyles and providing access to quality healthcare, the risk of stroke and its associated complications can be reduced. The event in Touba highlighted the need for continued efforts to improve healthcare services and outcomes for stroke patients in Senegal.
Key points
- The hospital admits 20 stroke patients monthly, highlighting the need for more beds and specialists.
- The absence of a neurologist at the Diourbel regional hospital forces patients to seek care elsewhere.
- The hospital and association collaborated to promote stroke awareness and prevention through screenings and education.
