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Early-life nutrition related experiences may fuel the emergence of obesity and type 2 diabetes in adolescence. The adoption of unhealthy dietary practices early in life is an indicator of adverse cardiometabolic health in adulthood. In-school adolescents' dietary practices in Ghana have not been explored extensively despite increasing levels of obesity in adolescents. This study sought to examine dietary practices, socio-demographic disparities and the factors influencing dietary choices among in-school adolescents in Ghana. A school-based, cross-sectional study was conducted in the Central region of Ghana in 2017. Using multistage sampling procedures, a total of 1,311 in-school adolescents were selected for the study. A modified version of the generic Global School Health Survey questionnaire on dietary practices was adapted and used for data collection. Percentage and frequency counts were used to report on the dietary practices, while Chi-square was used to determine socio-demographic variations in the dietary practices. Binary logistic regression was used to compute the influence of socio-demographic characteristics of respondents on the prevalence of healthy dietary behavior among in-school adolescents. The study revealed the prevalence of healthy dietary practices (49.9%, n = 654) among in-school adolescents in the region. The study also found increased frequency in consumption of soft drinks (93%, n = 1220) and toffees/sweets (90%, n = 1183) among in-school adolescents. However, low intake of breakfast (57%, n = 749) was observed among the adolescents. Significant disparities were observed in relation to gender, age, parental communication, academic performance and geographical location in the dietary practices of in-school adolescents. Furthermore, gender (OR = 1.36, P = 0.007), academic performance (OR = 2.19, P = 0.001) and geographical location (OR = 1.79, P = 0.001) were found to be significantly associated with dietary practices among in-school adolescents in the region. There was low consumption of fruits and vegetables among adolescents. Fruits and vegetables consumption was associated with gender, academic performance and geographical location, and these may be a reflection that knowledge on healthy food choices and availability are important factors influencing dietary choices among in-school adolescents. School health policy interventions aimed at improving nutritional status among adolescents and enhanced fruit and vegetable consumption in the country should take into account the potential benefit of increasing availability of fruits and vegetables in schools, while reducing access to sweets and soft drinks in the schools and communities.

Background Routine childhood vaccination (RCV) has demonstrated its effectiveness, saving millions of lives globally and reducing childhood mortality. However, several factors impede mothers from completing their children’s vaccination schedule. The purpose of this study was to determine factors influencing RCV among children aged 12–23 months in the Adansi South District (ASD) of Ghana. Methods A cross-sectional community-based survey with a census approach was conducted involving 3,312 mothers with children aged 12–23 months. Frequency and percentage, bivariate, and hierarchical binary logistic regression analyses were used to identify the factors related to RCV. Results The number of fully vaccinated children was 56.8% with partially vaccinated being 43.2%, indicating a low full RCV. The factors that influenced RCV included the child’s birth order (AOR = 0.653, [0.452-–0.945], p  = 0.024), maternal religious affiliation (AOR = 1.315, [1.098–1.575], p  = 0.003), Antenatal care (ANC) contacts (AOR = 2.045, [1.315–3.179], p  = 0.001), number of times ANC contacted (AOR = 0.597, [0.502–0.710], p  = 0.000), and child (AOR = 1.842, [1.566–2.166], p  = 0.000) and mother’s age (AOR = 2.346, [1.369–4.019], p  = 0.002). Maternal (AOR = 1.461, [1.143–1.866], p  = 0.002) and spousal income adequacy (AOR = 1.590, [1.081–2.337], p  = 0.018), spouse’s income irregularity (AOR = 2.292, [1.757–2.987], p  = 0.000), and if spouse’s income is the sole source of livelihood (AOR = 1.751, [1.271–2.414], p  = 0.001), type of material used for house construction (AOR = 1.459, [1.046–2.033], p  = 0.026), and the type of housing for dwelling (AOR = 1.570, [1.310–1.881], p  = 0.000), as well as mothers’ perception of vaccines, and vaccination activities (AOR = 1.333, [1.137–1.562], p  = 0.000) influence RCV in the district. Conclusions The relatively low uptake of RCV is indicative of low herd immunity among these children and posing a potential risk of causing vaccine-preventable diseases (VPD) outbreaks and subsequent health issues among children. The Ghana Health Service should offer flexible scheduling and reminder systems for vaccination appointments in the district. The GHS should prioritise targeted interventions during child welfare clinics (CWC), ANC contacts, and community gatherings to educate mothers on the importance of childhood vaccinations.

Despite a recent shift in school going adolescents' engagement in health compromising behaviours and their related socio-economic implications on developing societies, it is surprising that baseline information for planned interventions is sparse. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of alcohol drinking and related behaviours among in-school adolescents in the Junior High Schools (JHS) in the Central Region of Ghana. Descriptive cross-sectional design was employed with multistage sampling procedures to sample 1400 school going adolescents in JHS in the Central Region. Preliminary findings using simple frequencies and percentages revealed 42% alcohol drinking prevalence in the region. High prevalence of drunkenness (73%, n = 406) and early exposure to alcohol drinking when students were in primary school (52%, n = 286) were noted. Community festivals and use of alcohol as a form of medicine were enabling factors of alcohol consumption in the region. Binary logistic regression analysis also showed that geographical location was a significant predictor of alcohol drinking among school going adolescents, with students in the southern and central part of the region at greater risks of drinking alcohol than those from the northern part (OR = .696, 95% CI = 0.52-926, p = .013). However, no statistical significant variations were found in the odds of drinking alcohol for age (OR = 1.13, 95% CI = 0.86-1.48, p = .370), gender (OR = .81, 95% CI = 0.65-1.01, p = .06), religious affiliation (OR = 1.33, 95% CI = 0.94-1.89, p = .10), parental communication (OR = .86, 95% CI = 0.66-1.06, p = .13), academic performance (OR = 1.07, 95% CI = 0.79-1.45, p = .05) and socioeconomic status (OR = 1.20, 95% CI = 0.95-1.53, p = .12). With this baseline data, it was recommended that schools' curricula should include preventive cognitive-behavioural interventions that teach drug resistance skills and anti-drug norms. These interventions would foster the development of requisite knowledge and social skills (e.g., developing competence) for resisting social and peer influences that may trigger alcohol use and perhaps other drugs. Potentially, the motivation for alcohol use among school going adolescents in the region would be minimized, if not prevented.

Anaemia during pregnancy is a major public health concern in both advanced and less-developed countries including Ghana. The prevalence of anaemia in Ghana has a serious repercussion on the country's social and economic development. This prevalence has been linked to various factors, including educational level and occupational status. A prospective study was conducted to investigate the factors influencing anaemia among 150 pregnant women, aged 15-49 years, who attended antenatal clinics in the Adaklu District of the Volta region of Ghana. Haemoglobin levels were assessed in the first, second, and third trimesters, and a questionnaire was also used to collect data on demographic information and barriers to maintaining haemoglobin levels. The data were analysed using frequencies, percentages, and binary logistic regression. The prevalence of pregnancy anaemia in the district was 78.5%. The study found that 92% and 8% of pregnant women had excellent and good knowledge on anaemia in pregnancy, respectively. The study also identified several barriers to maintaining an appropriate haemoglobin level during pregnancy, such as long distances to healthcare facilities, non-intake of antimalarial drugs, and lack of nutritious meals. Finally, the study found that low education level, number of pregnancies, and number of children a woman had were significant determinants of anaemia during pregnancy in the district. The findings of the study suggest that targeted interventions are needed to reduce the burden of anaemia during pregnancy in the district. These interventions should address the social and environmental determinants of anaemia during pregnancy, such as improving access to healthcare facilities and promoting healthy eating habits. In addition, interventions that address social determinants of health, such as education and occupation, may be effective in reducing the burden of anaemia during pregnancy in the district.

Background Tropical oils such as palm and coconut oils are renowned for their high saturated fat content and culinary versatility. However, their consumption has sparked debate regarding their health benefits and production concerns. The purpose of this review was to map existing evidence on the health benefits and challenges associated with the consumption of tropical oils. Method The recommendations for conducting a scoping review by Arksey and O’Malley were followed. PubMed, Dimensions AI, Central, JSTOR Google, Google Scholar, and ProQuest databases were searched for relevant papers. The predetermined keywords used were Consumption” AND “Tropical oil,” as well as “Health benefits” OR “Health challenges” AND “Tropical Countries.” Peer-reviewed and grey literature published in English were eligible for this review. Result Tropical oils, such as palm and coconut oils, provide health benefits including essential vitamins (A and E) that enhance ocular health, boost immunity, and support growth. They are also recognised for their role in managing high blood sugar, obesity, and cholesterol levels, while offering antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These oils have wound-healing abilities and are commonly used in infant nutrition and traditional cooking. Nevertheless, prolonged and repeated use of tropical oils to high temperature can degrade vitamin E, whereas excessive intake may result in overdose. Health concerns include oxidative risks, diabetes, cancer, coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, and acrylamide formation due to production challenges excessive consumption. Additional issues include obesity, suboptimal oil production, misconceptions, regulatory obstacles, and preferences for alternative fats. Conclusion This review suggest that tropical oils provide essential health benefits, including vitamins and antioxidant properties, but pose significant health risks and production challenges, particularly when exposed to high temperatures and through excessive intake. Guidelines on the consumption of tropical oils in the tropical regions are necessary to regulate their consumption.

Background Physical activity (PA) is critical for healthy ageing, helping prevent chronic and cardiometabolic conditions, improving quality of life (QoL), and preventing premature mortality among older adults. However, determinants of PA levels and their association with QoL among older adults in Ghana remain understudied. This study examined factors influencing PA levels and QoL among older adults in the Cape Coast Metropolis, Ghana. Methods This descriptive cross-sectional study involved 234 individuals aged 60 years and above who participated in the Cardiometabolic Risk (CarMeR) study. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and WHO Quality of Life: Brief Version (WHOQOL-BREF) were adapted for data collection. Descriptive statistics, simple linear regression, and multiple linear regression were conducted. Results The majority of participants (68.4%) were female. Only one-third (30.3%) engaged in vigorous PA, while a significant portion (61.1%) did not meet the recommended PA levels (mean MET min/week = 500.33 ± 573.53). Overall, QoL was reduced, with 50.4% of the participants reporting low QoL. Higher PA levels were significantly associated with better QoL ( p  < 0.001). Gender (β = 0.531) and financial status (β = 0.484) showed the strongest influence on PA, followed by health status (β = 0.433). Social support (β = 0.173), age (β = 0.149), and safety from crime (β = 0.122) also had smaller but statistically significant effects. Collectively, these factors explained 52.6% of the variation in activity levels ( p  < 0.001). Conclusion Higher PA levels are strongly linked to improved QoL among older adults in Ghana. Since factors like safety from crime, social support, financial stability, being male, and good health status significantly influence PA participation, targeted public health initiatives could incorporate PA programs into existing health and social care systems, encouraging social engagement, addressing financial and environmental barriers, and developing safe and age-appropriate community spaces that promote active ageing.

BackgroundMany workplace illnesses are increasing exponentially because of the rapid change in climate and associated workplace heat exposure that lead to heat stress and ambulatory hypertension among workers. Fish smoking is a common livelihood among people residing along the coastal areas in developing countries who work outdoors and in extreme heat.ObjectiveThe objective of this study is to assess the prevalence of heat stress and ambulatory hypertension among fish smokers in coastal areas of Ghana and to identify work-related factors that influence these conditions.MethodsThis exploratory cross-sectional survey sampled 2018 fish smokers from various communities along the coastal areas of Ghana. Using a convenient sampling method to select the workers, data were collected with a questionnaire, collecting anthropometric information like weight, height and physiological parameters, including blood pressure, heart rate and body temperature using sphygmomanometer and thermometer. Also, the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature index was used to measure heat stress exposure among the workers. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Kruskal-Wallis H test, in SPSS V.25.0.ResultsThe study found that 87.6% of fish smokers in coastal Ghana reported high levels of heat stress, and 59.0% recorded ambulatory hypertension. Workers on the afternoon shift showed higher levels of heat stress compared with those on morning and evening shifts. The number of workdays per week was also linked to severe ambulatory hypertension. The analysis confirmed significant differences in heat stress across shifts (χ²=103.51, p<0.001, η²p=0.165) and in ambulatory blood pressure among workers based on workdays (χ²=96.04, p<0.001, η²p=0.352), showing moderate-to-large effects.ConclusionsThe study emphasises the importance of creating safe and healthy work environments that protect fish smokers from health hazards associated with heat exposure. There is the need for fish smokers to adopt less heat emission ovens for fish smoking and regularly cool their bodies during the afternoon shift as they pay attention to rehydration.

Paying for sex has often been associated with risky sexual behavior among heterosexual men, and men who pay for sex are considered as a bridging population for sexually transmitted infections. Consistent condom use during paid sex is essential for reducing sexually transmitted infections, including HIV/AIDS. In this study, we assessed the prevalence and predictors of consistent condom use among men who pay for sex in sub-Saharan Africa. We pooled data from 29 sub-Saharan African countries' Demographic and Health Surveys. A total of 3,353 men in sub-Saharan Africa who had paid for sex in the last 12 months preceding the surveys and had complete information on all the variables of interest were used in this study. The outcome variable for the study was consistent condom use for every paid sex in the last 12 months. Both bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were carried out. Results were presented as adjusted odds ratios with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals. Statistical significance was declared at p< 0.05. Overall, the prevalence of consistent condom use during paid sex in sub-Saharan Africa was 83.96% (CI = 80.35-87.56), ranging from 48.70% in Benin to 98% in Burkina Faso. Men aged 35-44 [AOR, 1.39 CI = 1.04-1.49], men in the richest wealth quintile [AOR, 1.96 CI = 1.30-3.00], men with secondary level of education [AOR, 1.69 CI = 1.17-2.44], and men in Burkina Faso [AOR = 67.59, CI = 8.72-523.9] had higher odds of consistent condom use during paid sex, compared to men aged 15-19, those in the poorest wealth quintile, those with no formal education, and men in Benin respectively. Conversely, Muslim men had lower odds [AOR = 0.71, CI = 0.53-0.95] of using condom consistently during paid sex, compared to Christian men. Empirical evidence from this study suggests that consistent condom use during paid sex encompasses complex social and demographic characteristics. The study also revealed that demographic characteristics such as age, wealth quintile, education, and religion were independently related to consistent condom use for paid sex among men. With sub-Saharan Africa having the highest sexual and reproductive health burden in the world, continuous application of evidence-based interventions (e.g., educational and entrepreneurial training) that account for behavioural and social vulnerabilities are required.

Background Maternal and child health are important issues for global health policy, and the past three decades have seen a significant progress in maternal and child healthcare worldwide. Immunization is a critical, efficient, and cost-effective public health intervention for newborns. However, studies on these health-promoting indicators in low-income and middle-income countries, especially in sub-Sahara Africa are sparse. We investigated the association between maternal healthcare utilization and complete vaccination in the Republic of Benin. Methods We analysed data from the 2018 Benin Demographic and Health Survey (BDHS). Specifically, the children’s recode file was used for the study. The outcome variable used was complete vaccination. Number of antenatal care visits, assistance during delivery, and postnatal check-up visits were the key explanatory variables. Bivariate and multilevel logistic regression analyses were carried out. The results were presented as unadjusted odds ratios (uOR) and adjusted odds ratios (aOR), with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) signifying their level of precision. Statistical significance was declared at p  < 0.05. Results The prevalence of full immunization coverage in Benin was 85.4%. The likelihood of full immunization was lower among children whose mothers had no antenatal care visits, compared to those whose mothers had 1–3 visits [aOR = 0.11, 95% CI: 0.08–0.15], those who got assistance from Traditional Birth Attendants/other during delivery, compared to those who had assistance from Skilled Birth Attendants/health professionals [aOR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.40–0.77], and mothers who had no postnatal care check-up visit, compared to those who had postnatal care check-up < 24 h after delivery [aOR = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.36–0.67]. With the covariates, religion, partner’s level of education, parity, wealth quintile, and place of residence also showed significant associations with full immunization. Conclusion The study has demonstrated strong association between full immunization and antenatal care, skilled attendance at birth, and postnatal care check-up visit. We found that full immunization decreases among women with no antenatal care visits, those who receive assistance from Traditional Birth Attendants during delivery, and those who do not go for postnatal care visits. To help achieve full immunization, it is prudent that the government of Benin collaborates with international organisations such as WHO and UNICEF to provide education to pregnant women on the importance of immunization after delivery. Such education can be embedded in the antenatal care, delivery and postnatal care services offered to pregnant women during pregnancy, delivery, and after delivery.

Objective: The preconception health (PCH) strategy provides a unique opportunity to reduce risk factors for adverse reproductive outcomes before pregnancy. However, many reproductive-aged individuals continue to miss opportunities to improve their health before pregnancy occurs. This study, qualitatively explored strategies required for integrating PCH promotion interventions into routine reproductive health services from university students’ perspectives. Materials and methods: We conducted eight mixed-gender focus group discussions (FGDs) with students in eight schools and faculties in the University from March 2019 to June 2019. Audio-taped data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed manually using inductive content analysis. Results: Three major themes emerged from the analysis of transcripts: interpersonal behavior change strategies, institutional policy directives, public policy interventions, and three main categories with eight sub-categories. The study showed that PCH promotion awareness campaigns, context-relevant service delivery initiatives, institutional and public policy directives are critical approaches for the delivery and uptake of PCH interventions. Participants also recommended prepayment schemes, walk-in services, mobile PCH clinics, and PCH incorporation into university curricula as context-specific strategies for PCH promotion among university students. Conclusion: PCH promotion could be feasible as an integral component of routine reproductive health services for university students. However, multi-level interventions at the student, health service, and institutional levels are necessary to increase awareness and facilitate the request and delivery of PCH services.