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Tandoh A, Laar A, Pradeilles R, Le Port A, Osei-Kwasi H, Amevinya GS, Aryeetey RNO, Agyemang C, Holdsworth M. Addressing the marketing and availability of unhealthy food and beverages in and around selected schools in Ghana: a community readiness appraisal. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e075166. [PMID: 37770260 PMCID: PMC10546112 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-075166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study assessed stakeholder readiness to address unhealthy food and beverage marketing and availability in/around Public Basic Schools (for children 4-15 years) in Greater Accra Region, the highly urbanised administrative capital of Ghana. DESIGN The community readiness model was used to conduct in-depth mixed methods interviews with stakeholders. Using predefined anchored rating statements, quantitative readiness scores ranging from 1 to 9 were generated. Thematic qualitative analysis was undertaken to understand barriers and facilitators that could influence the implementation of interventions. SETTING Greater Accra Region, Ghana. PARTICIPANTS 18 key informants from various school/education/citizen sectors, which together represented the 'school community' of Greater Accra Region. RESULTS The mean readiness scores indicated that the 'school community' was at the 'preplanning' stage of readiness (4.44±0.98) to address the marketing and availability of unhealthy food and beverages in and around schools. The mean readiness score for 'leadership' was the highest of all dimensions (5.36±1.60), corresponding to the 'preparation' stage. The lowest scores were found for 'community knowledge of efforts' (3.19±2.45) and 'resources for efforts' (3.64±0.87), both of which were at a 'vague awareness' stage. CONCLUSIONS The 'school community' recognised that the marketing and availability of unhealthy food and beverages was a problem. Additionally, current leadership was actively supportive of continuing/improving efforts that create healthier children's food environments. However, actions that aim to increase the 'school community's' knowledge of existing interventions and securing resources to sustain those interventions are needed before introducing readiness appropriate strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akua Tandoh
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, Greater Accra, Ghana
- UMR MoISA (Montpellier Interdisciplinary centre on Sustainable Agri-food systems), Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, CIHEAM-IAMM, INRAE, Institut Agro Montpellier, IRD, Montpellier, France
| | - Amos Laar
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, Greater Accra, Ghana
| | - Rebecca Pradeilles
- UMR MoISA (Montpellier Interdisciplinary centre on Sustainable Agri-food systems), Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, CIHEAM-IAMM, INRAE, Institut Agro Montpellier, IRD, Montpellier, France
| | - Agnes Le Port
- UMR MoISA (Montpellier Interdisciplinary centre on Sustainable Agri-food systems), Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, CIHEAM-IAMM, INRAE, Institut Agro Montpellier, IRD, Montpellier, France
| | - Hibbah Osei-Kwasi
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Gideon Senyo Amevinya
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, Greater Accra, Ghana
| | - Richmond Nii Okai Aryeetey
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, Greater Accra, Ghana
| | - Charles Agyemang
- Department of Public & Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Michelle Holdsworth
- UMR MoISA (Montpellier Interdisciplinary centre on Sustainable Agri-food systems), Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, CIHEAM-IAMM, INRAE, Institut Agro Montpellier, IRD, Montpellier, France
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Adjei AP, Amevinya GS, Quarpong W, Tandoh A, Aryeetey R, Holdsworth M, Agyemang C, Zotor F, Laar ME, Mensah K, Addo P, Laryea D, Asiki G, Sellen D, Vandevijvere S, Laar A. Availability of healthy and unhealthy foods in modern retail outlets located in selected districts of Greater Accra Region, Ghana. Front Public Health 2022; 10:922447. [PMID: 36438248 PMCID: PMC9682120 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.922447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Intake of unhealthy foods is linked to the onset of obesity and diet-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Availability of unhealthy (nutritionally poor) foods can influence preference, purchasing and consumption of such foods. This study determined the healthiness of foods sold at modern retail outlets- supermarkets and mini-marts in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. Methods All modern retail outlets located in six districts of Greater Accra were eligible. Those < 200 m2 of floor area and with permanent structures were categorized as mini-marts; and those ≥200 m2 as supermarkets. Shelf length of all available foods were measured. Healthiness of food was determined using two criteria - the NOVA classification and energy density of foods. Thus, ultra-processed foods or food items with >225 kcal/100 g were classified as unhealthy. The ratio of the area occupied by unhealthy to healthy foods was used to determine the healthiness of modern retail outlets. Results Of 67 retail outlets assessed, 86.6% were mini-marts. 85.0% of the total SHELF area was occupied by foods categorized as unhealthy (ranging from 9,262 m2 in Ashiaman Municipality to 41,892 m2 in Accra Metropolis). Refined grains/grain products were the most available, occupying 30.0% of the total food shelf space, followed by sugar-sweetened beverages (20.1% of total shelf space). The least available food group-unprocessed staples, was found in only one high income district, and occupied 0.1% of the total food shelf space. Retail outlets in two districts did not sell fresh fruits or fresh/unsalted canned vegetables. About two-thirds of food products available (n = 3,952) were ultra-processed. Overall, the ratio of ultra-processed-to-unprocessed foods ranged from 3 to 7 with an average (SD) of 5(2). Thus, for every healthy food, there were five ultra-processed ones in the studied retail outlets. Conclusion This study reveals widespread availability of ultra-processed foods in modern retail outlets within the selected districts. Toward a healthier food retail environment, public health and food regulators, in partnership with other stakeholders need to institute measures that improve availability of healthy foods within supermarkets and mini-marts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akosua Pokua Adjei
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Gideon Senyo Amevinya
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Wilhemina Quarpong
- Nutrition and Health Sciences, Laney Graduate School, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Akua Tandoh
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Richmond Aryeetey
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Michelle Holdsworth
- UMR MoISA (Montpellier Interdisciplinary Centre on Sustainable Agri-Food Systems), (Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, CIHEAM-IAMM, INRAE, Institut Agro, IRD), Montpellier, France
| | - Charles Agyemang
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Francis Zotor
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Matilda E. Laar
- Department Family and Consumer Sciences, School of Agriculture, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Kobby Mensah
- Department of Marketing and Entrepreneurship, University of Ghana Business School, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Phyllis Addo
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Dennis Laryea
- Non-Communicable Disease Programme, Ghana Health Service, Accra, Ghana
| | - Gershim Asiki
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Daniel Sellen
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Amos Laar
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana,*Correspondence: Amos Laar
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Tandoh A, Aryeetey R, Agyemang C, Holdsworth M, Asiki G, Zotor F, Mensah K, Laar ME, Laryea D, Sellen D, Vandevijvere S, Laar A. The Africa Food Environment Research Network (FERN): from concept to practice. Glob Health Promot 2022:17579759221126155. [DOI: 10.1177/17579759221126155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Background: Africa is contending with unhealthy food environments that are, in part, driving increasing rates of overweight, obesity and diet-related non-communicable diseases, alongside persistent undernutrition. This current paradigm requires expanded efforts – both in the volume and nature of empirical research, as well as the tools and capacity of those who conduct it. High quality and context-relevant research supports the development and implementation of policies that create healthy food environments. Aim and approach: This paper sets out the concept of the Africa Food Environment Research Network (FERN) initiative recently established by the Measurement, Evaluation, Accountability, and Leadership Support for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) (MEALS4NCDs) prevention project. Central to the Africa FERN initiative are: 1) building research capacity for innovative food environment research in Africa; 2) improving South–South, South–North partnerships to stimulate robust food environment research and monitoring in Africa and 3) sustaining dialogue and focusing priorities around current and future needs for enhanced food environment research and monitoring in Africa. Conclusion: The FERN initiative presents an opportune platform for researchers in Africa and the global North to weave the threads of experience and expertise for research capacity building, collaboration and advocacy, to advance food environment research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akua Tandoh
- Department of Population, Family & Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Richmond Aryeetey
- Department of Population, Family & Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Charles Agyemang
- Department of Public & Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Michelle Holdsworth
- UMR MoISA (Montpellier Interdisciplinary Centre on Sustainable Agri-food systems), (Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, CIHEAM-IAMM, INRAE, Institut Agro, IRD), Montpellier, France
| | - Gershim Asiki
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Francis Zotor
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Kobby Mensah
- Department of Marketing and Entrepreneurship, University of Ghana Business School, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Matilda E. Laar
- Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, School of Agriculture, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Dennis Laryea
- Non-Communicable Disease Control Programme, Ghana Health Service, Accra, Ghana
| | - Daniel Sellen
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Amos Laar
- Department of Population, Family & Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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Wanjohi MN, Pradeilles R, Asiki G, Holdsworth M, Kimani-Murage EW, Muthuri SK, Irache A, Laar A, Zotor F, Tandoh A, Klomegah S, Graham F, Osei-Kwasi HA, Green MA, Coleman N, Mensah K, Akparibo R, Aryeteey R, Rousham EK, Bricas N, Bohr M, Griffiths P. Community perceptions on the factors in the social food environment that influence dietary behaviour in cities of Kenya and Ghana: a Photovoice study. Public Health Nutr 2022; 26:1-13. [PMID: 36305344 PMCID: PMC9989710 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980022002270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore communities' perspectives on the factors in the social food environment that influence dietary behaviours in African cities. DESIGN A qualitative study using participatory photography (Photovoice). Participants took and discussed photographs representing factors in the social food environment that influence their dietary behaviours. Follow-up in-depth interviews allowed participants to tell the 'stories' of their photographs. Thematic analysis was conducted, using data-driven and theory-driven (based on the socio-ecological model) approaches. SETTING Three low-income areas of Nairobi (n 48) in Kenya and Accra (n 62) and Ho (n 32) in Ghana. PARTICIPANTS Adolescents and adults, male and female aged ≥13 years. RESULTS The 'people' who were most commonly reported as influencers of dietary behaviours within the social food environment included family members, friends, health workers and food vendors. They mainly influenced food purchase, preparation and consumption, through (1) considerations for family members' food preferences, (2) considerations for family members' health and nutrition needs, (3) social support by family and friends, (4) provision of nutritional advice and modelling food behaviour by parents and health professionals, (5) food vendors' services and social qualities. CONCLUSIONS The family presents an opportunity for promoting healthy dietary behaviours among family members. Peer groups could be harnessed to promote healthy dietary behaviours among adolescents and youth. Empowering food vendors to provide healthier and safer food options could enhance healthier food sourcing, purchasing and consumption in African low-income urban communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milkah N Wanjohi
- Maternal and Child Wellbeing Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, P.O Box 01787-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Rebecca Pradeilles
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, Loughborough, UK
| | - Gershim Asiki
- Health and Systems for Health Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Michelle Holdsworth
- UMR MoISA (Montpellier Interdisciplinary Centre on Sustainable Agri-food systems), (Université Montpellier, CIRAD, CIHEAM-IAMM, INRAE, Institute Agro, IRD), Montpellier, France
| | - Elizabeth W Kimani-Murage
- Maternal and Child Wellbeing Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, P.O Box 01787-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Stella K Muthuri
- Population Dynamics and Reproductive Health Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ana Irache
- Warwick Center for Applied Health Research and Delivery, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Amos Laar
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Francis Zotor
- Department of Family and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana
| | - Akua Tandoh
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Senam Klomegah
- Department of Family and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana
| | - Fiona Graham
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | - Mark A Green
- Department of Geography & Planning, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Nathaniel Coleman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Ghana Medical School, Korle Bu, Accra, Ghana
| | - Kobby Mensah
- Department of Marketing and Entrepreneurship, University of Ghana Business School, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Robert Akparibo
- School of Health and Related Research, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Richmond Aryeteey
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Emily K Rousham
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, Loughborough, UK
| | - Nicolas Bricas
- French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development (CIRAD), Montpellier Cedex 5, France
| | - Marco Bohr
- School of Art and Design, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Paula Griffiths
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, Loughborough, UK
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Liguori J, Pradeilles R, Laar A, Zotor F, Tandoh A, Klomegah S, Osei‐Kwasi HA, Le Port A, Bricas N, Aryeetey R, Akparibo R, Griffiths P, Holdsworth M. Individual‐level drivers of dietary behaviour in adolescents and women through the reproductive life course in urban Ghana: A Photovoice study. Maternal & Child Nutrition 2022; 18:e13412. [PMID: 35938776 PMCID: PMC9480960 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.13412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Evidence on the individual‐level drivers of dietary behaviours in deprived urban contexts in Africa is limited. Understanding how to best inform the development and delivery of interventions to promote healthy dietary behaviours is needed. As noncommunicable diseases account for over 40% of deaths in Ghana, the country has reached an advanced stage of nutrition transition. The aim of this study was to identify individual‐level factors (biological, demographic, cognitive, practices) influencing dietary behaviours among adolescent girls and women at different stages of the reproductive life course in urban Ghana with the goal of building evidence to improve targeted interventions. Qualitative Photovoice interviews (n = 64) were conducted in two urban neighbourhoods in Accra and Ho with adolescent girls (13–14 years) and women of reproductive age (15–49 years). Data analysis was both theory‐ and data‐driven to allow for emerging themes. Thirty‐seven factors, across four domains within the individual‐level, were identified as having an influence on dietary behaviours: biological (n = 5), demographic (n = 8), cognitions (n = 13) and practices (n = 11). Several factors emerged as facilitators or barriers to healthy eating, with income/wealth (demographic); nutrition knowledge/preferences/risk perception (cognitions); and cooking skills/eating at home/time constraints (practices) emerging most frequently. Pregnancy/lactating status (biological) influenced dietary behaviours mainly through medical advice, awareness and willingness to eat foods to support foetal/infant growth and development. Many of these factors were intertwined with the wider food environment, especially concerns about the cost of food and food safety, suggesting that interventions need to account for individual‐level as well as wider environmental drivers of dietary behaviours. Time constraints, eating at home, eating out, cooking skills, food preferences and food safety concerns were identified as key factors influencing dietary behaviours at the individual level in urban Ghana. Ability to eat nutritious, safe food was largely mediated by income and wealth. Biological factors, such as pregnancy/lactating status influenced behaviours through medical advice, nutrition knowledge and willingness to promote foetal/infant development. Many individual‐level factors were intertwined with the wider food environment. Factors influencing dietary behaviour at different levels need to be considered together when developing interventions/policies for healthier diets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Liguori
- UMR MoISA (Montpellier Interdisciplinary centre on Sustainable Agri‐Food Systems) CIRAD, CIHEAM‐IAMM, INRAE, Institut Agro Montpellier, IRD Montpellier France
| | - Rebecca Pradeilles
- Centre for Global Health and Human Development, School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences Loughborough University Loughborough UK
| | - Amos Laar
- Department of Population, Family & Reproductive Health, School of Public Health University of Ghana Accra Ghana
| | - Francis Zotor
- Department of Family and Community Health, School of Public Health University of Health and Allied Sciences Ho Ghana
| | - Akua Tandoh
- Department of Population, Family & Reproductive Health, School of Public Health University of Ghana Accra Ghana
| | - Senam Klomegah
- Department of Family and Community Health, School of Public Health University of Health and Allied Sciences Ho Ghana
| | | | - Agnès Le Port
- UMR MoISA (Montpellier Interdisciplinary centre on Sustainable Agri‐Food Systems) CIRAD, CIHEAM‐IAMM, INRAE, Institut Agro Montpellier, IRD Montpellier France
| | - Nicolas Bricas
- UMR MoISA (Montpellier Interdisciplinary centre on Sustainable Agri‐Food Systems) CIRAD, CIHEAM‐IAMM, INRAE, Institut Agro Montpellier, IRD Montpellier France
| | - Richmond Aryeetey
- Department of Population, Family & Reproductive Health, School of Public Health University of Ghana Accra Ghana
| | - Robert Akparibo
- School of Health and Related Research University of Sheffield Sheffield UK
| | - Paula Griffiths
- Centre for Global Health and Human Development, School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences Loughborough University Loughborough UK
| | - Michelle Holdsworth
- UMR MoISA (Montpellier Interdisciplinary centre on Sustainable Agri‐Food Systems) CIRAD, CIHEAM‐IAMM, INRAE, Institut Agro Montpellier, IRD Montpellier France
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Amevinya GS, Vandevijvere S, Kelly B, Afagbedzi SK, Aryeetey R, Adjei AP, Quarpong W, Tandoh A, Nanema S, Agyemang C, Zotor F, Laar ME, Mensah K, Laryea D, Asiki G, Holdsworth M, Laar A. Advertising of unhealthy foods and beverages around primary and junior high schools in Ghana's most urbanized and populous region. Front Public Health 2022; 10:917456. [PMID: 36211683 PMCID: PMC9539976 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.917456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The advertising of energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods and beverages is a common feature in obesogenic food environments. Such advertising, within and around settings where children live, learn, and play, negatively affects their food acquisition and consumption. We examined the extent and nature of food and beverage advertising around primary and junior high schools in Ghana's most populous and urbanized region, Greater Accra. Materials and methods Outdoor advertisements for foods and beverages within a 250 m road network distance of 200 randomly sampled schools were geocoded. For each food and beverage advertisement, information was collected on the setting, type, size, and number of product types featured in the advertisement. Promotional techniques (promotional characters and premium offers) used in advertisements were documented. Advertised foods and beverages were classified using the INFORMAS and NOVA food classification systems. Results A total of 5,887 advertisements were identified around the schools surveyed, 42% of which were for foods and beverages. Advertisements were most prevalent at food outlets (78% of all food advertisements), but also along roads and on non-food structures. Overall, 70% of food advertisements featured non-core/unhealthy products, while 12 and 14% had core/healthy and miscellaneous (including soup cubes, seasonings, and tea) products. About 4% of food advertisements had only a product/brand name or logo displayed. One out of two of the foods and beverages advertised were ultra-processed foods, 30% processed, 3% processed culinary ingredients, and 17% unprocessed or minimally processed foods. Sugar-sweetened beverages were the most advertised food product type (32%). Promotional characters were found on 14% of all food advertisements (most-69% were cartoons or manufacturer's characters), while 8% of all food advertisements had premium offers (including price discounts and gift/collectables). Conclusions There is an abundance of unhealthy food advertisements around primary and junior high schools in the Greater Accra Region. Policy actions such as restricting the promotion of unhealthy foods in children's settings are needed to protect pupils from such advertising practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gideon Senyo Amevinya
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Bridget Kelly
- Early Start, School of Health and Society, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Seth Kwaku Afagbedzi
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Richmond Aryeetey
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Akosua Pokua Adjei
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Wilhemina Quarpong
- Nutrition and Health Sciences, Laney Graduate School, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Akua Tandoh
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Silver Nanema
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Charles Agyemang
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Francis Zotor
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Matilda E. Laar
- Department Family and Consumer Sciences, School of Agriculture, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Kobby Mensah
- Department of Marketing and Entrepreneurship, University of Ghana Business School, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Dennis Laryea
- Non-communicable Disease Programme, Ghana Health Service, Accra, Ghana
| | - Gershim Asiki
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Michelle Holdsworth
- UMR MoISA (Montpellier Interdisciplinary Centre on Sustainable Agri-Food Systems), (Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, CIHEAM-IAMM, INRAE, Institut Agro, IRD), Montpellier, France
| | - Amos Laar
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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7
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Laar AK, Addo P, Aryeetey R, Agyemang C, Zotor F, Asiki G, Rampalli KK, Amevinya GS, Tandoh A, Nanema S, Adjei AP, Laar ME, Mensah K, Laryea D, Sellen D, Vandevijvere S, Turner C, Osei-Kwasi H, Spires M, Blake C, Rowland D, Kadiyala S, Madzorera I, Diouf A, Covic N, Dzudzor IM, Annan R, Milani P, Nortey J, Bricas N, Mphumuzi S, Anchang KY, Jafri A, Dhall M, Lee A, Mackay S, Oti SO, Hofman K, Frongillo EA, Holdsworth M. Perspective: Food Environment Research Priorities for Africa-Lessons from the Africa Food Environment Research Network. Adv Nutr 2022; 13:739-747. [PMID: 35254411 PMCID: PMC9156374 DOI: 10.1093/advances/nmac019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the last 2 decades, many African countries have undergone dietary and nutrition transitions fueled by globalization, rapid urbanization, and development. These changes have altered African food environments and, subsequently, dietary behaviors, including food acquisition and consumption. Dietary patterns associated with the nutrition transition have contributed to Africa's complex burden of malnutrition-obesity and other diet-related noncommunicable diseases (DR-NCDs)-along with persistent food insecurity and undernutrition. Available evidence links unhealthy or obesogenic food environments (including those that market and offer energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods and beverages) with suboptimal diets and associated adverse health outcomes. Elsewhere, governments have responded with policies to improve food environments. However, in Africa, the necessary research and policy action have received insufficient attention. Contextual evidence to motivate, enable, and create supportive food environments in Africa for better population health is urgently needed. In November 2020, the Measurement, Evaluation, Accountability, and Leadership Support for Noncommunicable Diseases Prevention Project (MEALS4NCDs) convened the first Africa Food Environment Research Network Meeting (FERN2020). This 3-d virtual meeting brought researchers from around the world to deliberate on future directions and research priorities related to improving food environments and nutrition across the African continent. The stakeholders shared experiences, best practices, challenges, and opportunities for improving the healthfulness of food environments and related policies in low- and middle-income countries. In this article, we summarize the proceedings and research priorities identified in the meeting to advance the food environment research agenda in Africa, and thus contribute to the promotion of healthier food environments to prevent DR-NCDs, and other forms of malnutrition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Phyllis Addo
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Richmond Aryeetey
- Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Charles Agyemang
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Francis Zotor
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Gershim Asiki
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Krystal K Rampalli
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Gideon S Amevinya
- Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Akua Tandoh
- Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Silver Nanema
- Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Akosua Pokua Adjei
- Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Matilda E Laar
- Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, School of Agriculture, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Kobby Mensah
- Department of Marketing and Entrepreneurship, University of Ghana Business School, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Dennis Laryea
- Non-Communicable Disease Programme, Ghana Health Service, Accra, Ghana
| | - Daniel Sellen
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Christopher Turner
- Department of Food and Markets, University of Greenwich, Greenwich, United Kingdom
| | - Hibbah Osei-Kwasi
- Geography Department, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Spires
- Centre for Food Policy, City University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Christine Blake
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Dominic Rowland
- Department of Population Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Suneetha Kadiyala
- Department of Population Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Isabel Madzorera
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Adama Diouf
- Nutrition Laboratory, Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University Cheikh Anta Diop, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Namukolo Covic
- International Food Policy Research Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Isaac M Dzudzor
- Center for Development Research (ZEF), University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Reginald Annan
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - John Nortey
- Statistics, Research, and Information Directorate, Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Accra, Ghana
| | - Nicholas Bricas
- UMR MoISA (Montpellier Interdisciplinary Center on Sustainable Agri-food Systems), CIRAD, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | | | | | - Ali Jafri
- Faculty of Medicine, Mohammed VI University of Health Sciences (UM6SS), Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Meenal Dhall
- Department of Anthropology, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Amanda Lee
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sally Mackay
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population Health, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Samuel O Oti
- International Development Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Karen Hofman
- SAMRC/Wits Centre for Health Economics and Decision Sciences - PRICELESS SA, School of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Edward A Frongillo
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Michelle Holdsworth
- UMR MoISA (Montpellier Interdisciplinary Center on Sustainable Agri-food Systems), University of Montpellier, CIRAD, CIHEAM-IAMM, INRAE, Institut Agro, French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development (IRD), Montpellier, France
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8
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Anaba EA, Tandoh A, Sesay FR, Fokukora T. Factors associated with health insurance enrolment among ghanaian children under the five years. Analysis of secondary data from a national survey. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:269. [PMID: 35227256 PMCID: PMC8886748 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-07670-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Health insurance enrolment provides financial access to health care and reduces the risk of catastrophic healthcare expenditure. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and correlates of health insurance enrolment among Ghanaian children under five years. Methods We analysed secondary data from the 2017/18 Ghana Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey. The survey was a nationally representative weighted sample comprising 8,874 children under five years and employed Computer Assisted Personal Interviewing to collect data from the participants. In addition, Chi-square and Logistic Regression analyses were conducted to determine factors associated with health insurance enrolment. Results The results showed that a majority (58.4%) of the participants were insured. Health insurance enrollment was associated with child age, maternal educational status, wealth index, place of residence and geographical region (p < 0.05). Children born to mothers with higher educational status (AOR = 2.14; 95% CI: 1.39–3.30) and mothers in the richest wealth quintile (AOR = 2.82; 95% CI: 2.00–3.98) had a higher likelihood of being insured compared with their counterparts. Also, children residing in rural areas (AOR = 0.75; 95% CI: 0.61–0.91) were less likely to be insured than children in urban areas. Conclusion This study revealed that more than half of the participants were insured. Health insurance enrolment was influenced by the child's age, mother's educational status, wealth index, residence, ethnicity and geographical region. Therefore, interventions aimed at increasing health insurance coverage among children should focus on children from low socio-economic backgrounds. Stakeholders can leverage these findings to help improve health insurance coverage among Ghanaian children under five years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Anongeba Anaba
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P. O. Box, L.G. 13, Legon, Ghana
| | - Akua Tandoh
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P. O. Box, L.G. 13, Legon, Ghana
| | - Foday Robert Sesay
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P. O. Box, L.G. 13, Legon, Ghana.,34 Military Hospital, Wilberforce, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Theopista Fokukora
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, P. O. Box, L.G. 13, Legon, Ghana. .,Department of Public Health, Faculty of Science and Technology, Cavendish University, P.O. Box 33145, Kampala, Uganda.
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9
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Laar A, Kelly B, Holdsworth M, Quarpong W, Aryeetey R, Amevinya GS, Tandoh A, Agyemang C, Zotor F, Laar ME, Mensah K, Laryea D, Asiki G, Pradeilles R, Sellen D, L'Abbe MR, Vandevijvere S. Providing Measurement, Evaluation, Accountability, and Leadership Support (MEALS) for Non-communicable Diseases Prevention in Ghana: Project Implementation Protocol. Front Nutr 2021; 8:644320. [PMID: 34485355 PMCID: PMC8416277 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2021.644320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: This study describes the rationale, adaptation, and final protocol of a project developed to address the increase in obesity and nutrition-related non-communicable diseases (NR-NCDs) in Ghana. Code-named the Measurement, Evaluation, Accountability, and Leadership Support for NCDs (MEALS4NCDs) project, it aims to measure and support public sector actions that create healthy food marketing, retail, and provisioning environments for Ghanaian children using adapted methods from the International Network for Food and Obesity/NCDs Research Monitoring and Action Support (INFORMAS). Methods: The protocol for this observational study draws substantially from the INFORMAS' Food Promotion and Food Provision Modules. However, to appraise the readiness of local communities to implement interventions with strong potential to improve food environments of Ghanaian children, the MEALS4NCDs protocol has innovatively integrated a local community participatory approach based on the community readiness model (CRM) into the INFORMAS approaches. The setting is Ghana, and the participants include health and nutrition policy-makers, nutrition and food service providers, consumers, school authorities, and pupils of Ghanaian basic schools. Results: The study establishes a standardized approach to providing implementation science evidence for the prevention of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Ghana. It demonstrates feasibility and the innovative application of the INFORMAS expanded food promotion and food provision modules, together with the integration of the CRM in a lower-middle income setting. Conclusion: The research will facilitate the understanding of the processes through which the INFORMAS approach is contextualized to a lower-middle income African context. The protocol could be adapted for similar country settings to monitor relevant aspects of food environments of children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amos Laar
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Bridget Kelly
- Early Start, School of Health and Society, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Michelle Holdsworth
- UMR MoISA (Montpellier Interdisciplinary Centre on Sustainable Agri-Food Systems), (Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, CIHEAM-IAMM, INRAE, Institut Agro, IRD), Montpellier, France
| | - Wilhemina Quarpong
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Richmond Aryeetey
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Gideon Senyo Amevinya
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Akua Tandoh
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Charles Agyemang
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam University Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Francis Zotor
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Matilda E Laar
- Department Family and Consumer Sciences, School of Agriculture, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Kobby Mensah
- Department of Marketing and Entrepreneurship, University of Ghana Business School, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Dennis Laryea
- Non-communicable Disease Programme, Ghana Health Service, Accra, Ghana
| | - Gershim Asiki
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Rebecca Pradeilles
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Sellen
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mary R L'Abbe
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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10
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Pradeilles R, Irache A, Wanjohi MN, Holdsworth M, Laar A, Zotor F, Tandoh A, Klomegah S, Graham F, Muthuri SK, Kimani-Murage EW, Coleman N, Green MA, Osei-Kwasi HA, Bohr M, Rousham EK, Asiki G, Akparibo R, Mensah K, Aryeetey R, Bricas N, Griffiths P. Urban physical food environments drive dietary behaviours in Ghana and Kenya: A photovoice study. Health Place 2021; 71:102647. [PMID: 34375838 PMCID: PMC8520917 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2021.102647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
We identified factors in the physical food environment that influence dietary behaviours among low-income dwellers in three African cities (Nairobi, Accra, Ho). We used Photovoice with 142 males/females (≥13 years). In the neighbourhood environment, poor hygiene, environmental sanitation, food contamination and adulteration were key concerns. Economic access was perceived as a major barrier to accessing nutritionally safe and healthy foods. Home gardening supplemented household nutritional needs, particularly in Nairobi. Policies to enhance food safety in neighbourhood environments are required. Home gardening, food pricing policies and social protection schemes could reduce financial barriers to safe and healthy diets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Pradeilles
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, United Kingdom.
| | - Ana Irache
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | | | - Michelle Holdsworth
- IRD (French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development), NUTRIPASS Unit, Université de Montpellier-IRD, Montpellier, France
| | - Amos Laar
- University of Ghana, Department of Population, Family & Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, Accra, Ghana
| | - Francis Zotor
- Department of Family and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Akua Tandoh
- University of Ghana, Department of Population, Family & Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, Accra, Ghana
| | - Senam Klomegah
- Department of Family and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Fiona Graham
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Nathaniel Coleman
- University of Ghana, Department of Population, Family & Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, Accra, Ghana; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Ghana Medical School, College of Health Sciences, Accra, Ghana
| | - Mark A Green
- Department of Geography and Planning, University of Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Marco Bohr
- School of Art & Design, Nottingham Trent University, UK
| | - Emily K Rousham
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, United Kingdom
| | - Gershim Asiki
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Robert Akparibo
- Public Health Section, School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Kobby Mensah
- Department of Marketing and Entrepreneurship, University of Ghana Business School, Accra, Ghana
| | - Richmond Aryeetey
- University of Ghana, Department of Population, Family & Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, Accra, Ghana
| | - Nicolas Bricas
- UMR MOISA, CIRAD- Agricultural Research & International Cooperation Organization, Montpellier, France
| | - Paula Griffiths
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, United Kingdom
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11
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Holdsworth M, Pradeilles R, Tandoh A, Green M, Wanjohi M, Zotor F, Asiki G, Klomegah S, Abdul-Haq Z, Osei-Kwasi H, Akparibo R, Bricas N, Auma C, Griffiths P, Laar A. Unhealthy eating practices of city-dwelling Africans in deprived neighbourhoods: Evidence for policy action from Ghana and Kenya. Glob Food Sec 2020; 26:100452. [PMID: 33324537 PMCID: PMC7726234 DOI: 10.1016/j.gfs.2020.100452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Growing urbanisation in Africa is accompanied by rapid changes in food environments, with potential shifts towards unhealthy food/beverage consumption, including in socio-economically disadvantaged populations. This study investigated how unhealthy food and beverages are embedded in everyday life in deprived areas of two African countries, to identify levers for context relevant policy. Deprived neighbourhoods (Ghana: 2 cities, Kenya: 1 city) were investigated (total = 459 female/male, adolescents/adults aged ≥13 y). A qualitative 24hr dietary recall was used to assess the healthiness of food/beverages in relation to eating practices: time of day and frequency of eating episodes (periodicity), length of eating episodes (tempo), and who people eat with and where (synchronisation). Five measures of the healthiness of food/beverages in relation to promoting a nutrient-rich diet were developed: i. nutrients (energy-dense and nutrient-poor -EDNP/energy-dense and nutrient-rich -EDNR); and ii. unhealthy food types (fried foods, sweet foods, sugar sweetened beverages (SSBs). A structured meal pattern of three main meals a day with limited snacking was evident. There was widespread consumption of unhealthy food/beverages. SSBs were consumed at three-quarters of eating episodes in Kenya (78.5%) and over a third in Ghana (36.2%), with those in Kenya coming primarily from sweet tea/coffee. Consumption of sweet foods peaked at breakfast in both countries. When snacking occurred (more common in Kenya), it was in the afternoon and tended to be accompanied by a SSB. In both countries, fried food was an integral part of all mealtimes, particularly common with the evening meal in Kenya. This includes consumption of nutrient-rich traditional foods/dishes (associated with cultural heritage) that were also energy-dense: (>84% consumed EDNR foods in both countries). The lowest socio-economic groups were more likely to consume unhealthy foods/beverages. Most eating episodes were <30 min (87.1% Ghana; 72.4% Kenya). Families and the home environment were important: >77% of eating episodes were consumed at home and >46% with family, which tended to be energy dense. Eating alone was also common as >42% of eating episodes were taken alone. In these deprived settings, policy action to encourage nutrient-rich diets has the potential to prevent multiple forms of malnutrition, but action is required across several sectors: enhancing financial and physical access to healthier foods that are convenient (can be eaten quickly/alone) through, for example, subsidies and incentives/training for local food vendors. Actions to limit access to unhealthy foods through, for example, fiscal and advertising policies to dis-incentivise unhealthy food consumption and SSBs, especially in Ghana. Introducing or adapting food-based dietary guidelines to incorporate advice on reducing sugar and fat at mealtimes could be accompanied by cooking skills interventions focussing on reducing frying/oil used when preparing meals, including 'traditional' dishes and reducing the sugar content of breakfast.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Holdsworth
- French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development (IRD), NUTRIPASS Unit: IRD-Univ Montpellier-SupAgro, Montpellier, France
- Corresponding author. Joint Research Unit on Food and Nutrition Research in the Global South (UMR NUTRIPASS), French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development (IRD), 911 av. Agropolis, 34394, Cedex 5, Montpellier, France.
| | - Rebecca Pradeilles
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, UK
| | - Akua Tandoh
- School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Mark Green
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Milkah Wanjohi
- African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Gershim Asiki
- African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Zakia Abdul-Haq
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Robert Akparibo
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Nicolas Bricas
- French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development (CIRAD), Montpellier, France
| | - Carol Auma
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Paula Griffiths
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, UK
| | - Amos Laar
- School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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12
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Green MA, Pradeilles R, Laar A, Osei-Kwasi H, Bricas N, Coleman N, Klomegah S, Wanjohi MN, Tandoh A, Akparibo R, Aryeetey RNO, Griffiths P, Kimani-Murage EW, Mensah K, Muthuri S, Zotor F, Holdsworth M. Investigating foods and beverages sold and advertised in deprived urban neighbourhoods in Ghana and Kenya: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e035680. [PMID: 32595155 PMCID: PMC7322322 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-035680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to characterise the local foods and beverages sold and advertised in three deprived urban African neighbourhoods. DESIGN Cross-sectional observational study. We undertook an audit of all food outlets (outlet type and food sold) and food advertisements. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise exposures. Latent class analysis was used to explore the interactions between food advertisements, food outlet types and food type availability. SETTING Three deprived neighbourhoods in African cities: Jamestown in Accra, Ho Dome in Ho (both Ghana) and Makadara in Nairobi (Kenya). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Types of foods and beverages sold and/or advertised. RESULTS Jamestown (80.5%) and Makadara (70.9%) were dominated by informal vendors. There was a wide diversity of foods, with high availability of healthy (eg, staples, vegetables) and unhealthy foods (eg, processed/fried foods, sugar-sweetened beverages). Almost half of all advertisements were for sugar-sweetened beverages (48.3%), with higher exposure to alcohol adverts compared with other items as well (28.5%). We identified five latent classes which demonstrated the clustering of healthier foods in informal outlets, and unhealthy foods in formal outlets. CONCLUSION Our study presents one of the most detailed geospatial exploration of the urban food environment in Africa. The high exposure of sugar-sweetened beverages and alcohol both available and advertised represent changing urban food environments. The concentration of unhealthy foods and beverages in formal outlets and advertisements of unhealthy products may offer important policy opportunities for regulation and action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Alan Green
- Department of Geography & Planning, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Rebecca Pradeilles
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Amos Laar
- Department of Population, Family & Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | | | - Nathaniel Coleman
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Senam Klomegah
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Hohoe, Ghana
| | - Milka Njeri Wanjohi
- Maternal and Child Wellbeing Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Akua Tandoh
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Robert Akparibo
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Paula Griffiths
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | | | - Kobby Mensah
- Business School, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | | | - Francis Zotor
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Hohoe, Ghana
| | - Michelle Holdsworth
- NUTRIPASS Unit, French Research Institute for Sustainable Development (IRD), Montpellier, France
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13
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Laar A, Barnes A, Aryeetey R, Tandoh A, Bash K, Mensah K, Zotor F, Vandevijvere S, Holdsworth M. Implementation of healthy food environment policies to prevent nutrition-related non-communicable diseases in Ghana: National experts' assessment of government action. Food Policy 2020; 93:101907. [PMID: 32565610 PMCID: PMC7299075 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodpol.2020.101907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Nutrition-related non-communicable diseases (NR-NCDs) are a global health problem, increasingly recognised as driven by unhealthy food environments. Yet little is known about government action to implement food environment-relevant policies, particularly in low-and lower-middle income countries. This study assessed government action, implementation gaps, and priorities to improve the food environment in Ghana. Using the Healthy Food-Environment Policy Index (Food-EPI), a panel comprising government and independent experts (n = 19) rated government action to improve the healthiness of food environment in Ghana against international best practices and according to steps within a policy cycle. Forty-three good practice indicators of food environment policy and infrastructure support were used, with ratings informed by systematically collected evidence of action validated by government officials. Following the rating exercise, the expert panel proposed and prioritized actions for government implementation. Three-quarters of all good practice indicators were rated at 'low'/'very little' implementation. Restricting the marketing of breast milk substitutes was the only indicator rated "very high". Of ten policy actions prioritized for implementation, restricting unhealthy food marketing in children's settings and in the media were ranked the highest priority. Providing sufficient funds for nationally-relevant research on nutrition and NCDs was the highest priority infrastructure-support action. Other priority infrastructure-support actions related to leadership, monitoring and evaluation. This study identified gaps in Ghana's implementation of internationally-recommended policies to promote healthy food environments. National stakeholders recommended actions, which will require legislation and leadership. The findings provide a baseline for measuring government progress towards implementing effective policies to prevent NR-NCDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amos Laar
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Amy Barnes
- Public Health Section, School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Richmond Aryeetey
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Akua Tandoh
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Kristin Bash
- Public Health Section, School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Kobby Mensah
- Department of Marketing and Entrepreneurship, University of Ghana Business School, Accra, Ghana
| | - Francis Zotor
- Department of Family and Community Health, School of Public health, University of Health and Allied Sciences Ho, Ghana
| | | | - Michelle Holdsworth
- Public Health Section, School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
- UMR NUTRIPASS, French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development- IRD, Montpellier, France
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14
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Twumasi MA, Tandoh A, Mante PK, Ekuadzi E, Boakye-Gyasi ME, Benneh CK, Kumadoh D, Woode E. Leaves and stems of Capparis erythrocarpos, more sustainable than roots, show antiarthritic effects. J Ethnopharmacol 2019; 238:111890. [PMID: 30999014 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.111890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Revised: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/13/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Capparis erythrocarpos is a medicinal plant used widely in many parts of Africa for the management of pain and inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Its wide range of use, popularity and high value, make C. erythrocarpos containing products a target for economically driven adulteration. This is made worse, by the use of roots, which are unsustainable plant parts. In addition, the mechanism of anti-inflammation is not clearly understood. AIM OF THE STUDY Therefore, this study comparatively evaluated the anti-arthritic and analgesic effects of the leaves, stems and roots of C. erythrocarpos, while elucidating the mechanism of anti-inflammation. MATERIALS AND METHODS Using the complete Freund's adjuvant arthritis model, the antiathritic effects were evaluated. The analgesic effects were determined by measuring responses to Von Frey filament number 9. Effects of C. erythrocarpos extracts on the levels of Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α) were determined using ELISA. Haematological and serum biochemical assays were also carried out. RESULTS The leaf, stem and root extracts significantly reduced paw volumes with ED50 values (mg/kg) of 182.5, 181.5 and 36.4 respectively. The leaf extract at a dose of 100 mg/kg showed substantial analgesic activity with a decrease in the percentage response to Von Frey filament 9. However, there was no significant difference in activities of the leaf, stem and root extracts. Results from ELISA assays show that lower doses of the stem extracts reduce levels of IL-6. Lower doses of all extracts also reduce TNF-α levels. Haematological analysis showed extracts reversed elevated WBC and platelet levels. Toxicity evaluation with kidney and liver function tests indicated no significant differences between the treatment and control groups. CONCLUSIONS The leaves and stems, just as the roots, have antiarthritic and analgesic effects and can be used as more sustainable alternatives to the roots. This will support the continuous growth of the industry that has developed around C. erythrocarpos.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Twumasi
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - A Tandoh
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - P K Mante
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.
| | - E Ekuadzi
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - M E Boakye-Gyasi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - C K Benneh
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - D Kumadoh
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Centre for Plant Medicine Research, Mampong, Ghana
| | - E Woode
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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15
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Pradeilles R, Marr C, Laar A, Holdsworth M, Zotor F, Tandoh A, Klomegah S, Coleman N, Bash K, Green M, Griffiths PL. How ready are communities to implement actions to improve diets of adolescent girls and women in urban Ghana? BMC Public Health 2019; 19:646. [PMID: 31138180 PMCID: PMC6537223 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-6989-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ghana has reached an advanced stage of nutrition transition, contributing to an increase in nutrition-related non-communicable diseases, particularly amongst urban women. Community involvement is an important factor in the success of efforts to promote healthy eating. The readiness of populations to accept a range of interventions needs to be understood before appropriate interventions can be implemented. Therefore, this study assessed how ready urban communities are to improve diets of women of reproductive age in Ghana. Methods Using the Community Readiness Model (CRM), in-depth interviews were conducted with 24 key informants from various sectors in low income communities across two cities in Ghana: Accra and Ho. The CRM consists of 36 open questions addressing five readiness dimensions (community knowledge of efforts, leadership, community climate, knowledge of the issue and resources). Interviews were scored using the CRM protocol with a maximum of 9 points per dimension (from 1 = no awareness to 9 = high level of community ownership). Thematic analysis was undertaken to gain insights of community factors that could affect the implementation of interventions to improve diets. Results The mean community readiness scores indicated that both communities were in the “vague awareness stage” (3.35 ± 0.54 (Accra) and 3.94 ± 0.41 (Ho)). CRM scores across the five dimensions ranged from 2.65–4.38/9, ranging from denial/resistance to pre-planning. In both communities, the mean readiness score for ‘knowledge of the issue’ was the highest of all dimensions (4.10 ± 1.61 (Accra); 4.38 ± 1.81 (Ho)), but was still only at the pre-planning phase. The lowest scores were found for community knowledge of efforts (denial/resistance; 2.65 ± 2.49 (Accra)) and resources (vague awareness; 3.35 ± 1.03 (Ho)). The lack of knowledge of the consequences of unhealthy diets, misconceptions of the issue partly from low education, as well as challenges faced from a lack of resources to initiate/sustain programmes explained the low readiness. Conclusions Despite recognising that unhealthy diets are a public health issue in these urban Ghanaian communities, it is not seen as a priority. The low community readiness ratings highlight the need to increase awareness of the issue prior to intervening to improve diets. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12889-019-6989-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Pradeilles
- Public Health Section, School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, 30 Regent Street, Sheffield, UK.
| | - Colette Marr
- Public Health Section, School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, 30 Regent Street, Sheffield, UK
| | - Amos Laar
- Department of Population, Family & Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Michelle Holdsworth
- Public Health Section, School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, 30 Regent Street, Sheffield, UK
| | - Francis Zotor
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Akua Tandoh
- Department of Population, Family & Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Senam Klomegah
- Department of Family and Community Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Nathaniel Coleman
- Department of Population, Family & Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Kristin Bash
- Public Health Section, School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, 30 Regent Street, Sheffield, UK
| | - Mark Green
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Paula L Griffiths
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
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16
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Laar A, Kotoh A, Parker M, Milani P, Tawiah C, Soor S, Anankware JP, Kalra N, Manu G, Tandoh A, Zobrist S, Engmann C, Pelto G. An Exploration of Edible Palm Weevil Larvae (Akokono) as a Source of Nutrition and Livelihood: Perspectives From Ghanaian Stakeholders. Food Nutr Bull 2017; 38:455-467. [PMID: 28969506 DOI: 10.1177/0379572117723396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Meeting the nutritive needs of infants and young children is a challenge in Ghana. Alternative animal source foods, including insects, could enhance infant and young child dietary quality while also improving livelihoods. OBJECTIVE To investigate the perspectives of Ghanaian stakeholders on the acceptability of the palm weevil larvae ( akokono) as a food source and the feasibility of micro-farming this local edible insect as a complementary food for infants and young children. METHODS We conducted an ethnographic study in the Brong-Ahafo Region of Ghana. First, 48 caregivers were asked questions about feeding and care practices, including attitudes toward production and consumption of akokono. Then, a selection of previously interviewed respondents joined 1 of 8 focus group discussions to provide further insight on key themes that emerged from earlier interviews. Concurrently, interviews with 25 other key local stakeholders were conducted. RESULTS Respondents generally had favorable perceptions of akokono as a nutritious food. A small minority would not consume akokono for religious reasons. Key factors positively influencing the acceptability of akokono as a complementary food were familiarity with the consumption of akokono by the primary caregiver and health worker endorsement of akokono. Stakeholders consider the larvae farmable and were open to its domestication. CONCLUSIONS Anticipated barriers to scaling up akokono micro-farming include a need for greater familiarity with and acceptance of the insect as food for infants and young children and creation of a sustainable market. Engagement with stakeholders, including health workers, will facilitate use of akokono as a complementary food.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amos Laar
- 1 Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Agnes Kotoh
- 1 Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | | | | | - Shobhita Soor
- 4 Aspire Food Group Ghana, Kumasi, Ashanti Region, Ghana
| | | | | | - Grace Manu
- 3 Kintampo Health Research Centre, Kintampo, Ghana
| | - Akua Tandoh
- 1 Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Cyril Engmann
- 2 PATH, Seattle, WA, USA.,5 University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.,6 Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA, USA
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