Seasonal and Meteorological Influences on Stroke Incidence and Outcomes in a Tropical Urban Setting: A 10‐Year Retrospective Study in Douala, Cameroon

Abstract

Abstract Climatic factors may influence stroke patterns, but data from sub‐Saharan Africa are scarce. This study assessed the relationship between weather variables and stroke incidence, severity, mortality, and hospital stay in Douala, Cameroon. A retrospective review was conducted using medical records from three referral hospitals in Douala from January 2011 to December 2020. Adults (≥18 years) with neuroimaging‐confirmed ischemic or hemorrhagic strokes were included. Weather data: temperature, humidity, wind speed, precipitation, atmospheric pressure, and sunshine duration, were obtained from the national meteorological agency (ASECNA). Associations between weather parameters and stroke‐related outcomes were analyzed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Among 1,349 stroke cases (mean age 61 ± 13 years; 53% male), 65% were ischemic strokes. Stroke incidence peaked during the long rainy season ( p = 0.053). Severe strokes were associated with the long dry season (OR = 1.88), low precipitation (OR = 1.74), and low sunshine (OR = 0.62), while the long rainy season was inversely associated with severity (OR = 0.60). Mortality was higher during the short rainy season, linked to high temperatures ( p = 0.046) and moderate rainfall ( p = 0.04). Longer hospital stays were associated with the long rainy season (mean difference of 2.3 days, p = 0.01), and were influenced by high wind ( p = 0.023), heavy rain ( p = 0.013), and low sunshine ( p = 0.002). Weather conditions significantly affect stroke incidence and outcomes. Climate‐informed public health strategies could improve stroke prevention and care in tropical regions.