Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease burden in Ghana: A scoping review

Background: The global burden of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is high. Documented data on the burden of ASCVD and its mortality in low- and middle-income countries are however limited particularly in Ghana. This study aims to identify the research gaps related to the ASCVD burden in Ghana to provide the recommendations to guide future research. Materials and Methods: We undertook a scoping review of ASCVD, comprehensively searching databases to identify all English-published articles on ASCVD and risk factors in Ghana from inception to 2021. Data on the study characteristics and key findings were independently extracted by two authors. We used a charting approach to synthesize and interpret the data. Results: We included 22 articles in this scoping review out of a total of 160 articles identified. There is a broad spectrum of conditions that are included under ASCVD. The most commonly included conditions were ischemic stroke, coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, and aortic disease. Conclusion: This scoping review has shown that ASCVD poses a considerable burden in the Ghanaian population, mostly driven by ischemic stroke. There is a need for an intensified effort by stakeholders, through research and policy, to identify and address the factors driving ASCVD to rise and prioritize prevention.