epidemiology of cardiovascular disease: trends and patterns

Cardiovascular diseases (cvd) are a major cause of illness and death in ghana. this trend mirrors broader epidemiological changes occurring across sub-saharan africa. this narrative review synthesizes current evidence on the burden, distribution, and determinants of cvd in ghana between 2010 and 2025. drawing upon peer-reviewed studies, population-based surveys, and institutional reports, we examine the prevalence, regional patterns, and clinical outcomes of major cvds, including hypertension, stroke, ischemic heart disease, heart failure, valvular heart disease, peripheral artery disease, and congenital heart disease. the findings of this study reveal that hypertension remains the most prevalent cardiovascular risk factor, with recent meta-analyses estimating national prevalence at approximately 27%, and regional data showing urban-rural convergence. stroke and hypertensive heart disease remain the leading causes of cardiovascular admissions and mortality in ghana. however, there is a growing burden of ischemic heart disease and heart failure, increasingly affecting younger adults. pediatric and adolescent populations are increasingly affected by congenital heart defects, rheumatic heart disease, and early-onset hypertension. despite growing awareness of cvd, there remains limited population-level screening, poor control of risk factors, and substantial treatment gaps, particularly in underserved and low-resource settings. the review also highlights the profound socioeconomic impact of cvd, including long-term disability, income loss, and catastrophic health expenditures. while national efforts have expanded data collection and clinical services, significant gaps remain in prevention, early detection, and chronic care infrastructure. we conclude that addressing ghana’s cvd epidemic requires a multi-sectoral approach that integrates epidemiological surveillance, targeted public health interventions, and health system strengthening, with a focus on equitable access and sustainable financing mechanisms.