ORCID Profile
0000-0003-0230-5783
Current Organisation
University for Development Studies School of Medicine
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Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 15-09-2014
DOI: 10.1155/2014/318569
Abstract: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (type 2 DM) has become a disease of public health concern worldwide. Obesity and elevated blood pressure have been shown to be comorbidities of type 2 DM. In this cross-sectional study in Tamale, Ghana, we determined the prevalence of abdominal obesity among type 2 DM patients. Furthermore, we examined the demographic, clinical, and anthropometric predictors of increasing waist circumference in this population. Three hundred type 2 DM patients attending the outpatient diabetes clinic of the Tamale Teaching Hospital, Ghana, were recruited for the study. Waist circumference (WC) and hip circumferences were measured appropriately. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) were taken from the personal health record files of patients. Demographic data were obtained. Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression models were employed to identify predictors of increasing WC. The prevalence of abdominal obesity was 77.0% and was significantly higher in women than in men. A positive correlation was observed between waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and WC ( r = 0.56 , P 0 . 001 ), female gender ( r = 0.73 , P 0 . 001 ), and age ( r = 0.20 , P 0 . 001 ). A high prevalence of abdominal obesity was observed. Predictors of increasing WC were gender, age, FPG, and WHR.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2020
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2021
DOI: 10.1177/2333794X211048382
Abstract: Aim. Midwives and nurses are critical in nutrition care for pregnant women and lactating mothers. Ghanaian nurses and midwives’ perception of the adequacy and their satisfaction with nutrition education received during training in school, level of nutrition care competencies, and nutrition practice behavior is unknown. We evaluated the adequacy of nutrition education received in nursing and midwifery school nutrition care competencies self-efficacy and the nutrition care practice of midwives and nurses. We also evaluated determinants of nutrition care practice during routine antenatal and postnatal care. Methods. Cross-sectional study conducted among midwives and nurses working at antenatal and postnatal clinics in Ghana. Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics, correlation, and linear regression. Findings. Almost 90% (n = 267) of the participants received nutrition education during training, 77.5% were unsatisfied with the amount of time allocated for nutrition education and 40% felt inadequately prepared from school to provide nutrition care. Self-efficacy ranged from moderate to low. Determinants of nutrition care practice were age of respondents ( B = 0.04 P = .002), nutrition-related knowledge ( B = 0.05 P = .016), adequacy of nutrition education ( B = 0.14 P = .006), nutrition training after school ( B = 0.38 P = .010) and nutrition care self-efficacy ( B = 0.03 P = .048). Conclusion. Notable knowledge gaps in basic nutrition, inadequate preparedness, and poor confidence to provide nutrition care was common. There is a need to improve the nutrition education experiences of midwives and nurses through curricula revision and refresher training courses.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 29-04-2016
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 27-02-2017
Publisher: Penerbit Universiti Sains Malaysia
Date: 24-03-2015
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 10-2016
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 04-02-2014
DOI: 10.1155/2014/508382
Abstract: This study evaluated the prevalence of general and abdominal obesity among students of the University for Development Studies, School of Medicine and Health Sciences (UDS-SMHS), Tamale, Ghana. Also, lifestyle risk factors for the two obesity indices were investigated. This study was conducted among a s le of 646 students. Anthropometric measures of weight, height, and waist circumference were appropriately assessed. The prevalence of general and abdominal obesity was 1.9% and 4.2%, respectively. Risk factors of general obesity were being female (crude OR = 6.9, 95% CI = 1.85–25.80, P = 0.0021 ), engaging in light PA (OR = 12.45, 95% CI = 2.96–52.41, P = 0.0006 ), being aged 28–37 years (OR = 5.37, 95% CI = 1.39–20.68, P = 0.0329 ), nonintake of coffee (OR = 4.1, 95% CI = 1.10–15.28, P = 0.0357 ), being married (OR = 5.7, 95% CI = 1.48–22.02, P = 0.0286 ), and being abdominally obese (OR = 02.7, 95% CI = 25.61–11.60, P 0.0001 ). Risk factors for abdominal obesity were being female, being married, having general obesity, and nonintake of coffee. Abdominal obesity was more prevalent than general obesity. Risk factors included being female, married, and generally obese and nonintake of coffee.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-09-2019
DOI: 10.1111/JAN.14190
Abstract: To determine diabetes patient's adherence to five self-care behaviours (diet, exercise medication, self-monitoring of blood glucose [SMBG] and foot care) in low- and middle-income countries. Systematic review. We searched MEDLINE, CINAHL, PUBMED, SCOPUS, PsycINFO, EMBASE, Cochrane library and EMCARE for the period January 1990 - June 2017. Title, abstract and full text screening were done according to eligibility criteria. A narrative synthesis of the literature was conducted. A total of 7,109 studies were identified of which 27 met the review eligibility criteria and were included. All the studies used self-report of adherence to diabetes self-care. Studies reported adherence rates in two major forms: (a) mean number of days participants performed a recommended dietary behaviour/activity during the past week and (b) proportions of participants adhering to a recommended self-care behaviour. Mean number of days per week participants adhered to a self-care behaviour ranged from 2.34.6 days per week for diet, 5.5-6.8 days per week for medication, 1.8-5.7 days per week for exercise, 0.2-2.2 days per week for SMBG and 2.2-4.3 days per week for foot care. Adherence rates ranged from 29.9%-91.7% for diet, 26.0%-97.0% for medication taking, 26.7%-69.0% for exercise, 13.0%-79.9% for self-monitoring of blood glucose and 17.0%-77.4% for foot care. Although most diabetes patients do not adhere to recommended self-care behaviours, adherence rates vary widely and were found to be high in some instances. Health services in low- and middle-income countries should monitor adherence to diabetes self-care behaviours rather than assume adherence and resources should be invested in improving adherence to the self-care behaviours. Large-scale accurate monitoring of adherence to diabetes self-care behaviour is needed and consideration should be given to choice of measurement tool for such exercise.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.DSX.2015.09.022
Abstract: This study assessed the prevalence of general and abdominal obesity and hypertension as well the weight management behaviours of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. It included 378 diabetes patients seeking care from two hospitals in Ghana. Standard methods and tools were used to assess participants' weight, height, waist circumference (WC), blood pressure (BP) and fasting plasma glucose (FPG). Weight management behaviours were measured using a questionnaire. The prevalence of general obesity, abdominal obesity and hypertension was 20.1%, 46.6% and 67.7% respectively. Abdominal obesity was more likely in participants who: skipped breakfast, engaged in exercise to lose weight and were generally overweight/obese. General overweight and obesity was more likely in participants who: reported receipt of weight management counselling, engaged in exercise to lose weight, had a weight management plan/goal, and were abdominally obese. Hypertension was less likely in participants who had: no formal education, diabetes for ≥5 years and modified their dietary habits to lose weight but more likely in those who skipped breakfast. Abdominal obesity, general overweight/obesity, and hypertension were frequent in this s le and were influenced by weight management behaviours.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2021
DOI: 10.1177/11786388211039427
Abstract: Iron deficiency anaemia is an international public health concern and pregnant women are at an increased risk. We investigated the consumption of iron rich foods and associated factors among pregnant women in a rural district from Ghana. Following a cross-sectional design, dietary intake of iron rich foods was obtained from 252 pregnant women using a 24-hour recall food check list. Nutrition knowledge, attitudes and socio-demographic characteristics were also assessed. Participants had a mean (SD) knowledge score of 54.66 (22.74)%. About 73% of the participants had heard about iron-deficiency anaemia. Only 16.3% of the participants knew foods that help the body to absorb and use iron while 9.1% knew beverages that decrease iron absorption. About 71% of the participants ate fish and/or seafood while 67.1% of them ate green leafy vegetables. Only 4.4% of the participants ate organ meat, and 29% took flesh meat. Only 22.4% of the study participants usually drank coffee or tea while 78.2% ate vitamin C-rich foods. With regards to attitudes, 88.5% of the participants perceived anaemia to be a serious disease. Nutrition knowledge was significantly associated with the consumption of iron rich foods (β = .02 95% CI = 0.01-0.02). Nutrition knowledge may be an important determinant of the consumption of iron rich foods among pregnant women making it necessary for healthcare providers to continue to provide nutrition education to pregnant women during routine antenatal care.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 15-05-2015
Publisher: AOSIS
Date: 31-10-2017
DOI: 10.4102/CURATIONIS.V40I1.1618
Abstract: Background: Malnutrition contributes significantly to child morbidity and mortality. Nurses require appropriate knowledge, skills and attitudes to prevent and treat malnutrition in children using appropriate guidelines or protocols.Objectives: The aim of this article was to assess nurses’ knowledge, attitudes towards malnutrition and its management using the World Health Organization (WHO) or United Nations International Children’s Fund guidelines for the treatment of severely malnourished children and to evaluate factors associated with their knowledge and attitudes.Methods: Participants included 104 nurses working in the outpatient and paediatric units or departments of four hospitals in Tamale metropolis. An 88-item questionnaire was used to measure nurses’ socio-demographic characteristics as well as their knowledge and attitudes towards malnutrition in children and its management using the WHO guidelines for the inpatient treatment of severely malnourished children.Results: Nurses’ knowledge in malnutrition and its management was slightly above average (54.0%), but their attitudes were highly positive. Factors that were associated with nurses’ knowledge were number of nutrition courses undertaken in nursing school, number of years working as a nurse, receipt of a refresher course on nutrition after school and receipt of training on the guidelines. Nurses’ attitudes were associated with report of having awareness on the guidelines, number of years a nurse has been involved in the treatment of a severely malnourished child.Conclusion: Nurses’ knowledge levels in the inpatient treatment of severely malnourished children were not desirable. However, their attitudes were generally positive. Receipt of previous training, awareness of the WHO guidelines, practice experience and number of years as a nurse significantly affected knowledge and attitude scores in the positive direction.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 15-04-2014
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2020
DOI: 10.1186/S40795-020-00393-0
Abstract: Complementary feeding is critical for optimal nutrition in infants and young children as it ensures their growth, health and development to attain their full potential. However, evidence shows that children from developing countries do not meet the core indicators for appropriate complementary feeding. We evaluated mothers’ knowledge and attitudes regarding child feeding recommendations and the determinants of adequate diet among children aged 6–23 months. This cross-sectional study included 200 children aged 6–23 months and their mothers/care givers recruited during child welfare clinics of two health facilities in Ghana. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess determinants of adequate diet. Sixty-eight percent of the mothers knew the recommended duration of continued breastfeeding, 56.5% how to ensure dietary ersity and enrich their children’s diets and 94% ( n = 188) had positive attitude towards recommended infant and young child feeding practices. Majority of the mothers (92%, n = 183) practiced continued breastfeeding, 10.5% of the children met minimum diet ersity score, 39.5% minimum meal frequency and 8.5% received minimum adequate diet. Determinants of receipt of minimum adequate diet were: having high knowledge in child feeding recommendations (100% vs. 0.0, p 0.001) and child’s father reportedly earning adequate income to cater for the family (AOR = 12.1 (1.32–109.72, p = 0.027). Motherss knowledge levels regarding infant and young child feeding recommendations had notable deficiencies although they generally had a positive attitude towards child feeding recommendations. Knowledge regarding infant and young child feeding recommendations as well as the child’s father having adequate income were important determinants of adequate diet. Nutrition education should emphasize on improving mothers’ nutrition knowledge regarding infant and young child feeding recommendations and supporting mothers to overcome barriers to feed their children with adequate diets.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2018
Publisher: Research Square Platform LLC
Date: 07-05-2020
DOI: 10.21203/RS.3.RS-25288/V1
Abstract: Background Appropriate complementary feeding is critical for optimal nutrition in infant and young children as it ensures their growth, health and development to attain their full potential. However, evidence shows children from developing countries do not meet the core indicators for appropriate complementary feeding. We evaluated mothers’ competency in infant and young child feeding recommendations and their association to complementary feeding practices among children aged 6–23 months. Methods This cross-sectional study included 200 children aged 6–23 months and their mothers/care givers recruited during the child welfare clinics of two health facilities in Ghana. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess determinants of appropriate diet. Results Sixty-eight percent of the mothers knew the recommended duration of continued breastfeeding, 56.5% how to ensure dietary ersity and enrich their children’s diets and 94% (n = 188) had positive attitude towards recommended infant and young child feeding practices. Majority of the mothers (92%, n = 183) practiced continued breastfeeding, 10.5% of the children met minimum diet ersity score, 39.5% minimum meal frequency and 8.5% received minimum acceptable diet. Determinants of receipt of minimum adequate diet were: having high knowledge in child feeding recommendations (100% vs. 0.0 p 0.001) and child’s father reportedly earning enough financially (AOR = 12.1 (1.32–109.72 p = 0.027). Conclusion Poor complementary feeding practices were common and mother’s knowledge levels regarding infant and young child feeding recommendations as well as the income levels of the child’s father were important determinants of appropriate diet. Nutrition education should emphasis on improving mothers’ nutrition knowledge regarding infant and young child feeding and supporting mothers to overcome barriers to feed their children with appropriate complementary foods.
Publisher: Research Square Platform LLC
Date: 29-08-2020
DOI: 10.21203/RS.3.RS-25288/V2
Abstract: Background: Complementary feeding is critical for optimal nutrition in infant and young children as it ensures their growth, health and development to attain their full potential. However, evidence shows children from developing countries do not meet the core indicators for appropriate complementary feeding. We evaluated mothers’ knowledge and attitudes regarding child feeding recommendations and the determinants of adequate diet among children aged 6-23 months. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 200 children aged 6-23 months and their mothers/care givers recruited during the child welfare clinics of two health facilities in Ghana. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess determinants of adequate diet. Results: Sixty-eight percent of the mothers knew the recommended duration of continued breastfeeding, 56.5% how to ensure dietary ersity and enrich their children’s diets and 94% (n=188) had positive attitude towards recommended infant and young child feeding practices. Majority of the mothers (92%, n=183) practiced continued breastfeeding, 10.5% of the children met minimum diet ersity score, 39.5% minimum meal frequency and 8.5% received minimum adequate diet. Determinants of receipt of minimum adequate diet were: having high knowledge in child feeding recommendations (100% vs. 0.0 p .001) and child’s father reportedly earning adequate income to cater for the family (AOR = 12.1 (1.32 – 109.72 p = 0.027). Conclusion: Motherss knowledge levels regarding infant and young child feeding recommendations had notable deficiencies although they generally had a positive attitude towards child feeding recommendations. Knowledge regarding infant and young child feeding recommendations as well as the child’s father having adequate income were important determinants of adequate diet. Nutrition education should emphasize on improving mothers’ nutrition knowledge regarding infant and young child feeding recommendations and supporting mothers to overcome barriers to feed their children with adequate diets.
Publisher: Research Square Platform LLC
Date: 05-11-2020
DOI: 10.21203/RS.3.RS-25288/V3
Abstract: Background: Complementary feeding is critical for optimal nutrition in infant and young children as it ensures their growth, health and development to attain their full potential. However, evidence shows children from developing countries do not meet the core indicators for appropriate complementary feeding. We evaluated mothers’ knowledge and attitudes regarding child feeding recommendations and the determinants of adequate diet among children aged 6-23 months. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 200 children aged 6-23 months and their mothers/care givers recruited during the child welfare clinics of two health facilities in Ghana. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess determinants of adequate diet. Results: Sixty-eight percent of the mothers knew the recommended duration of continued breastfeeding, 56.5% how to ensure dietary ersity and enrich their children’s diets and 94% (n=188) had positive attitude towards recommended infant and young child feeding practices. Majority of the mothers (92%, n=183) practiced continued breastfeeding, 10.5% of the children met minimum diet ersity score, 39.5% minimum meal frequency and 8.5% received minimum adequate diet. Determinants of receipt of minimum adequate diet were: having high knowledge in child feeding recommendations (100% vs. 0.0 p .001) and child’s father reportedly earning adequate income to cater for the family (AOR = 12.1 (1.32 – 109.72 p = 0.027). Conclusion: Motherss knowledge levels regarding infant and young child feeding recommendations had notable deficiencies although they generally had a positive attitude towards child feeding recommendations. Knowledge regarding infant and young child feeding recommendations as well as the child’s father having adequate income were important determinants of adequate diet. Nutrition education should emphasize on improving mothers’ nutrition knowledge regarding infant and young child feeding recommendations and supporting mothers to overcome barriers to feed their children with adequate diets.
Publisher: Ubiquity Press, Ltd.
Date: 24-07-2019
DOI: 10.5334/AOGH.2570
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.DSX.2014.04.036
Abstract: Diabetes Mellitus is now a prevalent disease in both developed and developing countries. Overweight/obesity and hypertension are potential modifiable risk factors for diabetes mellitus and persist during the course of the disease. This study was aimed at reporting the prevalence of overweight/obesity and systemic hypertension and their association to blood glucose levels in persons with diabetes mellitus attending a diabetic clinic in Ghanaian Teaching Hospital. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 previously diagnosed diabetes mellitus patients attending a diabetic clinic at the Tamale Teaching Hospital, Ghana. Anthropometric variables of age, weight and height were measured with appropriate instruments, computed into BMI and classified according to WHO classifications. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures were measured by an appropriate instrument and classified by WHO standards. Fasting plasma glucose levels of the study participants were recorded from their personal health folder. All data was analysed by GraphPad prism version 5. In general, 7.0% of the participants were underweight and 32.0% were overweight or obese. The mean±SD weight, height and BMI of the participants were 67.53±13.32, 1.68±0.12 and 24.18±5.32. Twenty-one percent of the studied participants were hypertensive. Mean±SD fasting plasma glucose of 7.94±2.82 was observed among the diabetic patients. As the prevalence of hyperglycaemia was higher among patients aged ≤40 years (88.9% vs. 75.8%), normoglycaemia (11.1% vs. 24.2%) was higher among those over 40 years. The differences were not significant. The prevalence of hyperglycaemia was significantly higher in participants with overweight/obese (0.0% vs. 41.6%, p<0.0001) than those with underweight (26.1% vs. 1.3%, p=0.0005) and normal weight (73.9% vs. 57.1%, p=0.2228). A high prevalence of overweight/obesity and systemic hypertension was found. Hyperglycaemia was more prevalent among overweight/obese participants.
Publisher: Korea Health Personnel Licensing Examination Institute
Date: 08-05-2014
Abstract: Purpose: Problem-based learning is an established method of teaching and learning in medical education. However, its impact on students’ achievement on examinations is varied and inconsistent. We compared the levels of achievement on the Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery/Chirurgery (MB ChB) Part I and II licensing examination of students in problem-based learning, community-based education and service (PBL/COBES), and conventional curricula.Methods: In 2014, we analyzed the MB ChB Final Part I and II licensing examination results of students in three classes (2004, 2005, and 2006) of the School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana. Ninety-three students in the 2004 and 2005 cohorts followed a conventional curriculum, and 82 students in the 2006 cohort followed a PBL/COBES curriculum. Using appropriate statistical tools, the analysis compared in idual discipline scores and the proportions of students who received distinction/credit ass grades among the classes.Results: The PBL students had significantly higher mean and median scores than the conventional students in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Internal Medicine, Community Health and Family Medicine, Surgery, and Psychiatry, but not in Child Health and Pediatrics. Also, a significantly (P=0.0010) higher percentage, 95.1% (n=78), of the PBL students passed all the disciplines, compared to 79.6% (n=74) of the conventional students.Conclusion: The PBL students significantly performed better in all the disciplines except child health and pediatrics, where the conventional students scored higher. These findings demonstrate that the benefits of the PBL/COBES curriculum are tangible and should be fostered.
Publisher: Science Alert
Date: 15-04-2013
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 10-2022
DOI: 10.1177/22799036221129417
Abstract: COVID-19 lockdowns involved precautions and social rules that resulted in drastic changes to daily life activities in every setting. University students were not left out as their education was affected and they had to resort to online learning from their homes. The lockdowns did not only affect their education but also potentially affected their dietary habits and lifestyle behaviors. We evaluated the reported dietary habits and lifestyle behaviors of students from a Ghanaian University before and during the COVID-19 lockdown. Following a cross-sectional design, 220 students were recruited from the University for Development Studies in Ghana. Data was collected by means of an online questionnaire. Chi-square test ( χ 2 ) analysis was used to examine associations among variables. About 59% of the students skipped meals before COVID-19 whereas 47.8% skipped meals during the COVID-19 lockdown. While 64.1% consumed homemade meals before the COVID-19, 82.3% consumed homemade meals during the COVID-19 lockdown. In addition, there was a significant increase in the consumption of homemade food ( p 0.001), level of healthy foods choices ( p = 0.029), and a reduced skipping of meals (0.014) during the COVID-19 lockdown. Again, 56.4% of the students engaged in exercise before the lockdown while 45% participated in exercise during the lockdown. The lockdown had an impact on some of the dietary and lifestyle habits of the students. University students should be supported with appropriate nutrition education and counseling programs to help them adopt healthy dietary and lifestyle habits.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 29-03-2016
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 06-03-2019
DOI: 10.1111/JOCN.14835
Abstract: To explore patient and healthcare provider (HCP) perspectives about patients' barriers to the performance of diabetic self-care behaviours in Ghana. Sub-Saharan African urban populations are increasingly affected by type 2 diabetes due to nutrition transition, sedentary lifestyles and ageing. Diabetic self-care is critical to improving clinical outcomes. However, little is known about barriers to diabetic self-care (diet, exercise, medication taking, self-monitoring of blood glucose and foot care) in sub-Saharan Africa. Qualitative study that followed the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) guidelines. Semi-structured interviews were conducted among 23 people living with type 2 diabetes and 14 HCPs recruited from the diabetes clinics of three hospitals in Tamale, Ghana. Interviews were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim. The constant comparative method of data analysis was used and identified themes classified according to constructs of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB): attitudes/behavioural beliefs, subjective norms and perceived behavioural control. Barriers relating to attitudes included misconceptions that diabetes was caused by spiritual forces or curses, use of herbal medicines, intentional nonadherence, difficulty changing old habits, and feeling or lacking motivation to exercise. Barriers relating to subjective norms were inadequate family support, social stigma (usually by spouses and other members of the community) and cultural beliefs. Perceived behavioural control barriers were poor income levels, lack of glucometers, busy work schedules, long distance to the hospital and inadequate access to variety of foods due to erratic supply of foods or seasonality. Both patients and HCPs discussed similar barriers and those relating to attitude and behavioural control were commonly discussed. Interventions to improve adherence to diabetic self-care should focus on helping persons with diabetes develop favourable attitudes and how to overcome behavioural control barriers. Such interventions should have both in idualised and community-wide approaches.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-2022
DOI: 10.1186/S40795-022-00571-2
Abstract: Consumers are exposed to a wide range of advertisements through different channels daily, which tends to have an influence on their food decision making. The aim of this study was to evaluate the different forms of food advertisements students are exposed to on c us and how they influence their food choices and nutritional status. This cross-sectional study was conducted to find out the influence of different forms of food advertisements on students’ food choices and nutritional status. A self-reported semi-structured questionnaire was used to elicit responses from 367 students. About 51.5% of the students were females and 48.5% males. Body Mass index (BMI) was derived from weight and height measured according to standard procedures. Data was analysed and presented as frequencies and percentages. Chi-square was used to determine association between categorical variables (socio-demographic characteristics, food choices and nutritional status). The students reported ‘use of internet’ (58.9%) as the main source of food advertisement on c us, followed by television (21.0%). A large number of students (74.9%) were affirmative about food advertisements influencing their food decision making. Those with poor nutritional status (underweight, overweight and obese) were more likely to patronize sugar sweetened beverages (10.1%) as compared to fruits and vegetables (1.4%). There was statistical significance ( p = 0.003) for type of food patronized due to advertisement and the source of advertisement. However, there was no statistical significance ( p = 0.832) for type of food patronized due to advertisement and BMI of students. Owing to the increased patronage of internet and television as channels of food advertisements by students, policy makers should prioritize the designing and implementation of intervention programmes through these channels that would influence healthy food decision making and promote consumption of nutrient rich foods. As this population has high self-reported advertisements’ influence on food choices, it is vital to investigate further the influence of contextual cues such as environment and advertisement on their eating habits and dietary patterns.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 15-07-2014
Abstract: Adults with the metabolic syndrome (MetS) are twice as likely to die from and three times as likely to have a heart attack or stroke compared with people without the syndrome. About 70-80% of type 2 diabetes mellitus (type 2 DM) patients are diagnosed with the MetS. Investigating the occurrence of the MetS in type 2 DM patients is critical for cardiovascular disease prevention. We evaluated the prevalence and components of the MetS and its associated clinical and demographic factors in a Ghanaian adult population with DM 2. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 previously diagnosed type 2 DM patients receiving care from an outpatient clinic of the Tamale Teaching Hospital, Ghana. Anthropometric measurements of waist circumference (cm), weight (Kg) and height (m) were measured appropriately. Clinical data were obtained from the personal health record files of the participants. MetS was defined according to the International Diabetes Federation criteria. The prevalence of MetS was 24.0% (n=48). The prevalence was higher in women (27.3%, n= 42) compared to men (13.0%, n=6). The commonest occurring components of the MetS included abdominal obesity (77.0%) and elevated FPG (77.0%) denoting uncontrolled diabetes. The prevalence of elevated BP was found to be 44.0%(n=88) and was higher in men (56.5%) than in women (40.3%). Factors that were found to be associated to the MetS were being overweight/obese (Crude OR = 2.9, 95% CI = 1.43 – 5.90, p=0.004), ever tried to lose weight (Crude OR = 2.5, 95% CI = 1.24 – 4.94, p=0.015) and having diabetes for over 5 years (Crude OR = 11.3, 95% CI = 5.26 – 24.08, p .001). Other factors that were associated to the MetS were current smokers (Crude OR = 6.8, 95% CI = 1.21- 38.49, p=0.030) and alcohol drinkers (Crude OR = 3.1, 95% CI = 1.23 – 7.65, p=0.018). A comparatively low prevalence of the MetS was found. More females than males had the MetS. Uncontrolled diabetes and abdominal obesity were prevalent. The factors identified by our univariate logistic regression model were not significant predictors of the MetS in our multivariate model.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-2016
Publisher: Medknow
Date: 2016
Abstract: The Dundee Ready Educational Environment Measure (DREEM) has been widely accepted and recognized for the assessment of the educational environment in a variety of health professions education programs. Concerns regarding the psychometric properties of the DREEM have been raised. This study evaluated the psychometric properties of the DREEM in a s le of Ghanaian medical students following a problem-based learning curriculum. A s le of 234 second to fourth year medical students of the University for Development Studies, School of Medicine and Health Sciences were invited to complete the DREEM questionnaire. Psychometric measures employed included Cronbach's alpha analysis, confirmatory factor analysis and principal component analysis with varimax rotation. The internal consistency for the overall DREEM was 0.92. Apart from two subscales that had Cronbach's alpha values 1, and in total they accounted for 37.6% of the variance. Alpha values for the subscales of the new four factor structure ranged from 0.618 - 0.915. The overall internal consistency of the DREEM was found to be excellent. The internal consistency of the in idual subscales was variable, as two subscales had alpha values < 0.70 and the remainder exceeding 0.70. The original five factor structure of the DREEM was not supported. Exploratory factor analysis suggested a four factor solution as a possible alternative to the five factor structure of the DREEM.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 22-09-2014
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 24-03-2017
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-07-2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.ORCP.2015.03.002
Abstract: We compared participants' self-perception of their weight with the World Health Organisation (WHO) definition for BMI categories among undergraduate university students undertaking health related academic programmes in Ghana. Also, we investigated factors associated to the underestimation of weight status in this s le. This cross-sectional study was conducted among a s le of 368 undergraduate students. Anthropometric measurements of weight and height were measured with appropriate tools and computed into Body Mass Index (BMI) categorised based on WHO classifications. Waist and hip circumferences were also measured appropriately. Participants' self-perception of weight status was assessed by the question: How do you perceive your weight? (a) Underweight, (b) normal weight, (c) overweight, and (d) obese. The BMI-measured weight status was compared to the self-perceived weight status by cross-tabulation, Kappa statistics of agreement and χ(2) for trend analysis. Factors associated with misperception of weight status was measured using univariate and multivariable analysis. Thirteen percent (n=48) of the participants were overweight/obesity (BMI) and 31.5% had central obesity. Overall, 20.6% of the participants misperceived their weight status in which 78.9% of them underestimated it. Among overweight/obese participants, 41.7% self-perceived themselves accurately. Whereas 10.6% of normal weight participants underestimated their weight status, over half (58.3%) of overweight/obese participants did so. Factors that were associated with underestimation of weight status were having overweight/obesity (BMI) and central obesity. Underestimation of weight status was frequent. Health professionals and related government agencies should develop intervention programmes to empower young people to have accurate weight status perception.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 12-02-2019
DOI: 10.1155/2019/2316375
Abstract: Introduction . Malaria is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, requiring in idual and environmental level controls to prevent its adverse morbidity effects. This study examined reproductive-aged women’s knowledge and care-seeking practices for malaria prevention and control in Ghana. Methods . The 2016 Ghana Malaria Indicator Survey data for reproductive-age women was analysed (n=5,150). Multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression model was used to determine factors associated with reproductive-aged women’s knowledge and care-seeking practices for malaria. Results . 62.3%, 81.3%, and 64.6% knowledge levels on causes, signs/symptoms, and prevention of malaria were found, respectively, among respondents. Age, wealth and educational status, religion, region, and place of residence (rural) were found to significantly influence respondents’ knowledge of causes, signs/symptoms, and care-seeking practices for malaria. A 15% differential among Insecticide Treated Nets (ITNs) awareness and use was found. Increasing age (≥35 years) was associated with increasing knowledge of malaria. Regional variations were observed to significantly influence knowledge of malaria treatment. Conclusion . Though ownership of ITNs and knowledge of malaria prevention were high, it did not necessarily translate into use of ITNs. Thus, there is a need to intensify education on the importance and the role of ITNs use in the prevention of malaria.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.DIABRES.2019.02.004
Abstract: We evaluated the content validity, factorial structure, internal consistency, construct validity, and floor and ceiling effects of the SDSCA among Ghanaian persons with type 2 diabetes. The summary of diabetes self-care activities measure (SDSCA) was administered to 187 adults living with type 2 diabetes from three diabetes clinics. A confirmatory factor analysis maintained the four factor structure of the SDSCA. However, two items, 3 (fruit and vegetable servings) and 4 (red meat or full-fat dairy products) had factor loadings of 0.26 and 0.16 respectively. The model also had a statistical power of 0.72 (below acceptable criteria). Modification of the model by removing item 4 resulted in an improved revised model with a power of 0.82. Construct validity was found for the exercise and diet subscales of the SDSCA but not for the self-monitoring of blood glucose and foot care subscales. The internal consistency of the SDSCA measure was 0.68, below acceptable criteria for internal consistency. No floor effects were present but the exercise subscale had ceiling effects. The SDSCA measure had content validity, maintained its multidimensionality and met the criteria for floor effects but not for construct validity, internal consistency and ceiling effects. The SDSCA measure may require improvements to evaluate self-care behaviours of adult type 2 diabetes patients in Ghana and probably in other sub-Saharan countries.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2014
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 2023
DOI: 10.1017/JNS.2023.16
Abstract: We reviewed the available research and gave an overview of the effects of nutrition education interventions (NEIs) on medical students’ and residents’ knowledge of nutrition, attitudes towards nutrition care, self-efficacy, dietary practices and readiness to offer nutrition care. From 28 May through 29 June 2021, we searched Google Scholar, PubMed, ProQuest, Cochrane and ProQuest to retrieve 1807 articles. After conducting de-duplication and applying the eligibility criteria and reviewing the title and abstract, 23 papers were included. The data were descriptively and narratively synthesised, and the results were displayed as frequencies, tables and figures. Twenty-one interventions were designed to increase participants’ knowledge of nutrition-related topics, and eighteen studies found that nutrition knowledge had significantly improved post-intervention. Only four of the eleven studies that reported on attitudes about nutrition post-intervention showed a meaningful improvement. The self-efficacy of participants was examined in more than half of the included studies ( n 13, 56⋅5 %), and eleven of these studies found a significant increase in the participants’ level of self-efficacy to offer nutrition care post-intervention. At the post-intervention point, seven interventions found that dietary and lifestyle habits had significantly improved. The review demonstrated the potential of NEIs to enhance participants’ dietary habits and nutrition-related knowledge, attitudes and self-efficacy. Reduced nutrition knowledge, attitude and self-efficacy scores during the follow-up, point to the need for more opportunities for medical students and residents to learn about nutrition after the intervention.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 13-05-2021
DOI: 10.1186/S12889-021-10980-W
Abstract: More than half of all deaths in under 5 children is related to malnutrition. Child malnutrition could be prevented through regular monitoring of the growth and development of children and the implementation of growth promotion activities referred to as growth monitoring and promotion (GMP). Mothers’/caregivers utilization of these activities through child welfare clinics could improve the growth and development of under 5 children. We evaluated mothers’ knowledge on GMP, utilization and associated factors among mother-child pairs from a poor socio-economic district in Northern Ghana. Using an analytical cross-sectional design, participants included mothers with children aged 0–59 months, grouped into 0–11 months, 12–23 months and 24–59 months. A semi-structured questionnaire containing both closed- and open-ended questions was used to collect data. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify determinants of GMP utilization. Four hundred mother-child pairs were included in the study. Overall, 28.5% ( n = 114) of the mothers utilized GMP services. Almost 60%( n = 237) of the mothers knew the recommended age to seek for GMP service for their children. Only 9% of the mothers could correctly interpret the directions of the growth curves in their children’s Health Record booklet. Mothers with children aged 0–11 months were 3.9 times more likely ( p = 0.009) to utilize GMP services compared to their counterparts with children aged 12–23 months and 24–59 months. Mothers who had low level of knowledge were 2.19 times ( p = 0.003) more likely to utilize GMP services compared to their counterparts with high level of knowledge.. Utilization of GMP services was low and particularly lower in children aged 24–59 months. Mothers’ knowledge in GMP was optimal although there were notable gaps.
Publisher: Institute of Advanced Engineering and Science
Date: 03-2019
DOI: 10.11591/IJPHS.V8I1.16601
Abstract: The home and school environments as well as physical activity may be linked to the development of childhood obesity. We evaluated the home and school environments (HSEs), physical activity levels (PAL), television viewing (TVV) and their associations with adiposity indices of school-age children. This cross-sectional study included children aged 6-12 years and their parents from Tamale, Ghana. HSEs and TVV were assessed using questionnaires. The physical activity questionnaire for children (PAQ-C) was used to assess children’s PALs. Weight, height and waist circumferences were measured using standard tools. About 45% of children lived within a walking distance to parks or outdoor recreation centres. Majority of the parents considered their neighbourhoods to be safe for children to engage in physical activity. Only 27% of the schools had a food and nutrition policy, and more than 70% had a field for outdoor activities. Children watched TV for an average of 1.7 hours/day. Mean physical activity scores was 2.51. The school-age children had mean (SD) BMI-for-age z-scores was -0.23(1.47). Time spent watching TV or playing video games was associated with children’s BMI-for-age z-scores (β=0.48, p=0.043), BMI (β=2.28 p=0.005), and % body fat (β=3.80, p=0.005). Child’s level of activity was negatively associated with waist circumference (β =-0.65, p& .001). Lack of nutrition policy in schools was common. TVV hours predisposed children to excess weight whiles physical activity decreased the likelihood of being obese.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-05-2017
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.ORCP.2015.08.018
Abstract: To describe the prevalence of underassessment of weight status and weight management behaviours and to evaluate how underassessment of weight status is associated with demographic factors, receipt of healthcare professional's weight management counselling, weight management behaviours and having knowledge in basic anthropometric measurements. This cross-sectional study included 222 overweight and obese type 2 diabetes patients. Participants' weight and height were determined using appropriate tools. Demographic characteristics, knowledge in basic anthropometric measurements and self-assessment of weight status were determined using a questionnaire. They were more overweight (65.8%) than obese (34.2%) participants. Sixty percent reported receipt of weight management counselling from health care professionals. The majority (50.5%) of the participants did not know which category of weight status they were, 30.6% assessed themselves as normal weight and 18.0% assessed themselves as overweight/obese. Prevalence of underassessment was 63.6%. Participants underassessing (2.9% vs. 20% p=0.004) their weight status were less likely to be able to measure their weight and calculate BMI than their counterparts who accurately self-assessed their weight status. Overweight participants were 3 times more likely to underassess their weight status than obese participants. Underassessment of weight status was less likely in females and in participants who reported receipt of weight management counselling than in those who did not receive weight management counselling. Underassessment of weight status was more common in overweight than in obese participants. Receipt of weight management counselling was associated with having accurate assessment of weight status. Lack of knowledge in anthropometric measurements was widespread.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-11-2013
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-02-2018
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 02-03-2023
DOI: 10.3389/FNUT.2023.1063316
Abstract: Most doctors and medical students report inadequate competencies in nutrition care. We evaluated the impact of a nutrition education intervention on medical students' lifestyle habits, dietary ersity, nutrition care knowledge, attitude toward nutrition care, and their level of self-efficacy in the provision of nutrition care. All 2nd-year medical students were enrolled into a 5 week, 24-h nutrition education intervention that involved both deductive and practical sessions. Pre-, post and 4 weeks follow-up assessments were conducted. At post- and 4-weeks post-intervention the number of days participants consumed vegetables and engaged in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity significantly ( p = 0.003 and 0.002) improved respectively from baseline. Mean nutrition care knowledge scores of participants increased by 3.27 points (95% Cl: 1.98–4.56, p & 0.001) from 19.49 at baseline through to 24.78 post- and 22.76 4 weeks follow-up. No significant [ X ( 2 ) 2 = 1.568, p = 0.457] change in mean attitude toward nutrition care score was recorded. Mean level of self-efficacy in the provision of nutrition care improved significantly by 1.73 (95% Cl: 1.17–2.28, p & 0.001) at post-intervention and 4 weeks follow-up compared to the baseline scores. The intervention improved the nutrition care knowledge, self-efficacy in the provision of nutrition care as well as medical students' own consumption of vegetables, dietary ersity and their engagement in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. However, continuous implementation of nutrition education interventions is needed to sustain these outcomes and further improve the nutrition education experience of medical students.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2014
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 17-05-2016
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.DSX.2019.03.041
Abstract: Self-care support provided by healthcare providers (HCPs) is critical to diabetes self-care. However, a number of barriers prevent HCPs from providing self-care support to people with diabetes. We explored attitudes towards, barriers and facilitators of the provision of diabetes self-care support among Ghanaian HCPs. Fourteen semi-structured interviews were conducted among HCPs recruited from three diabetes clinics in Tamale, Ghana. All interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were coded and analysed thematically. HCPs reported a sense of responsibility and urgency to provide self-care education to diabetes patients while believing it was the patients' responsibility to self-care for their diabetes condition. Accordingly, HCPs perceived their role to be limited to information sharing rather than behaviour change interventions. Facilitators to the provision of self-care support included patients' motivation, and team work among healthcare professionals. Barriers that hindered self-care support included language barriers and poor inter-professional collaboration. Furthermore, HCPs discussed that they felt inadequately trained to provide self-care support. Healthcare-system-related barriers were inadequate office space, lack of professional development programmes, high patient numbers, inadequate staff numbers, inadequate health insurance and a lack of sufficient supplies and equipment in the hospital. HCPs attitudes were generally favourable towards supporting self-care, albeit with a focus on information provision rather than behaviour change. Training in effective strategies for providing self-care support are needed, and better use of the resources that are available.
Location: Ghana
No related grants have been discovered for Victor Mogre.