Browsing by Author "Aryeetey, R.N.O."

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Aryeetey, R. N. O., Marquis, G. S., Brakohiapa, L., Timms, L., &Lartey, A. (2009). Subclinical mastitis may not reduce breastmilk intake during established lactation.
(2009-09) Aryeetey, R.N.O.; Marquis, G.S.; Timms, L.; Lartey, A; Brakohiapa, L.
Objective: This study determined the effect of subclinical mastitis (SCM) on infant breastmilk intake. Design: Participants (60 Ghanaian lactating mothers and their infants) were from periurban communities in the Manya Krobo district of Ghana in 2006-2007. Bilateral breastmilk samples were obtained once between months 3 and 6 postpartum and tested for SCM using the California mastitis test (CMT) and the sodium/potassium (Na/K) ratio. Infants' 12-hour breastmilk intake was assessed by test weighing. CMT scoring for SCM diagnosis was scaled as ?1 = positive (n = 37) and <1 = negative (n = 23). SCM diagnosis was confirmed as a Na/K ratio of >1.0 (n = 14). Results: Breastmilk intake was nonsignificantly lower among infants whose mothers had elevated Na/K ratios of >1.0 (-65.1 g; 95 confidence interval -141.3 g, 11.1 g). Infants whose mothers were positive for SCM with both CMT and Na/K ratio criteria had significantly lower breastmilk intake (-88.9 g; 95 confidence interval -171.1 g, -6.9 g) compared to those whose mothers tested either negative with both tests or positive on only one. Infant weight (p < 0.01) and frequency of feeding (p = 0.01) were independently associated with breastmilk intake. However, the effect of SCM on breastmilk intake disappeared when infant weight and feeding frequency were included in a multiple linear regression model. Conclusions: The results of this study did not show an effect of SCM on breastmilk intake among 3-6-month-old infants. A larger sample size with a longitudinal design will be needed in future studies. © 2009 Mary Ann Liebert, Inc.
Basic school pupils’ food purchases during mid-morning break in urban Ghanaian schools
(PLoS ONE, 2020) Ogum-Alangea, D.; Aryeetey, R.N.O.; Gray, H.L.; et al.
Background Unhealthy food vending can expose children to malnutrition and other diet-related challenges such as obesity. This study sought to describe types and sources of food in basic schools in urban Accra, and to describe food purchases by pupils. Methods This was a cross-sectional study of five basic schools (3 public; and 2 private) and 644 pupils in the Ga-East Municipality in Ghana. Checklists were used to document available sources of food during school hours. Pupils were intercepted after making purchases during break time and the type, cost, and sources of foods purchased were documented. The energy content of foods was read from labels when available or estimated using the Ghana Food Composition database when unlabelled. Frequencies and crosstabs were used to compare food type by source and school type. Results Foods were purchased from the school canteen, school store, private stores, and ‘table-top’ vendors. Meals were most frequently purchased (38%) although single purchases were sweetened drinks, savory snacks, and confectioneries. About 53% of retailers located within the schools sold relatively healthier food options. Similar foods with comparable energy content were purchased within and outside of school. Conclusions Basic schools in urban Ghana provide ready access to energy-dense food options, which are purchased by pupils both within and outside of school premises. Timely interventions inclusive of school food policies can encourage healthier diets among pupils.
Capacity for scaling up nutrition: a focus on pre-service training in West Africa and a Ghanaian case study.
(Proceedings of the Nutrition Society, 2015-11) Aryeetey, R.N.O.; Laar, A.; Zotor, F.; Ghana SUN Academic Platform
The 2013 Lancet series on maternal and child nutrition is identified and advocated for improved institutional and human capacity in nutrition towards scaling up nutrition (SUN) in countries with high stunting rates. Of the fifty-four countries with high burden of child undernutrition who have committed to the SUN movement, thirty-six are in Africa. In the present paper, the academic platform of the SUN movement in Ghana presents an overview of nutrition pre-service capacity in West Africa with a focus on Ghana. The present paper is based on the findings of a sub-region-wide assessment of degree programmes in nutrition in West Africa, plus another report on pre-service nutrition capacity in diploma awarding nursing and nutrition programmes in Ghana. Although there is inadequate evidence on pre-service nutrition training in the sub-region, the two reports provide useful evidence for action, including inadequate number and distribution of pre-service nutrition training programmes, low nutrition graduate output, poor quality of the programme curriculum and instruction, and sub-optimal capital investment. The present paper calls for urgent action to improve pre-service nutrition capacity building as a critical step towards SUN in West Africa.
Child feeding knowledge and practices among women participating in growth monitoring and promotion in Accra, Ghana
(2014-05-29) Gyampoh, S.; Otoo, G.E.; Aryeetey, R.N.O.
Abstract Background Child undernutrition and poor feeding practices remain a concern in Ghana. The Growth Monitoring and Promotion (GMP) programme seeks to empower mothers to provide appropriate child care. Although the program has been implemented in Ghana for over four decades, little is known about its impact on child feeding outcomes. The current study assessed the association between GMP exposure and mothers' child feeding knowledge and practices in the Accra Metropolitan Area (AMA), Ghana. Methods A cross-sectional survey of 199 mother-child pairs accessing child welfare services in six public health facilities in the AMA was conducted. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on respondent characteristics and child feeding knowledge; a 24-hour dietary recall tool was used to record child feeding practices. Linear regression analysis was used to determine the association between mothers' exposure to GMP and their knowledge and practices on child feeding. Results Seventy four percent of mothers had not missed any scheduled child welfare clinic sessions. Over 60% of mothers knew the appropriate age of introduction of foods; 86% also gave correct response regarding minimum number of times their child should be fed daily. About 81% of children less than 6 months were exclusively breastfed in the preceding 24 hours, although 36% had received water since birth. Forty two percent of children 6–23 months received dietary diverse meals while 64% were fed the required number of times in a day. Overall, only 32% of children 6–23 months received a minimum acceptable diet in the preceding 24 hours. A higher GMP exposure was positively associated with feeding knowledge scores among mothers with children below 6 months (p < 0.05). Conclusion Although most mothers were knowledgeable about recommendations, feeding practices were suboptimal, especially complementary feeding. GMP exposure was associated with feeding knowledge only among mothers with children less than 6 months. Strengthening of feeding counselling focused on children above 6 months is recommended.
Child feeding knowledge and practices among women participating in growth monitoring and promotion in Accra, Ghana
(BMC Pregnancy Childbirth, 2015-05-29) Gyampoh, S.; Otoo, G.E.; Aryeetey, R.N.O.
Child undernutrition and poor feeding practices remain a concern in Ghana. The Growth Monitoring and Promotion (GMP) programme seeks to empower mothers to provide appropriate child care. Although the program has been implemented in Ghana for over four decades, little is known about its impact on child feeding outcomes. The current study assessed the association between GMP exposure and mothers' child feeding knowledge and practices in the Accra Metropolitan Area (AMA), Ghana.
Comparison of Two School Feeding Programmes in Ghana, West Africa
(International Journal of Child Health and Nutrition, 2016) Owusu, J.S.; Colecraft, E.K.; Aryeetey, R.N.O.; et al.
Background: Malnutrition of children in Ghana continues during school years. There is limited information on how school meals meet nutrient recommendations in Ghana. Objectives: This study aimed to compare the energy and nutrient content of meals served by Ghana School Feeding Programme (GSFP) and Non-Governmental School Feeding Programme (NGSFP) and adherence to nutrient recommendations. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study design involving the observation of school meals at two sites: GSFP and NGSFP. The average weights of a week’s meal were converted to energy and nutrient equivalence and compared with international recommendations. Differences were assessed with t-tests. Results: NGSFP provided significantly higher portion size (416 ± 96 g vs. 243 ± 50 g; p=0.007), energy (776 ± 427 kcal vs. 315 ± 24 kcal; p=0.042) and fats (17± 8 vs. 6 ± 2; p=0.019) but similar micronutrient contributions to GSFP. NGSFP met energy and macronutrient recommendations set by the World Food Programme; whereas, GSFP did not meet the recommendations. Conclusion and Recommendations: The NGSFP had more energy and macronutrients per serving size than the GSFP. Regulation of meals served by GSFP should be reviewed to ensure they contribute to the adequacy of children’s diets as well as meet recommendations set by the World Food Programme.
Compliance Audit Of Processed Complementary Foods In Urban Ghana
(Frontiers in Public Health, 2015) Aryeetey, R.N.O.; Tay, M.
Background and objectives: Although processed complementary foods (PCFs) can contribute to meeting the dietary needs of infants and young children, it has been associated with unethical marketing practices, which undermine the practice of exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months. The current study assessed PCF labeling compliance with the International Code of Marketing of Breast Milk Substitutes (CMBMS) and the National Breastfeeding Promotion Regulation (NBPR) in Ghana. Methods: A variety of PCFs were purchased from child welfare clinics, fuel station shops, supermarkets, “mother/baby” care shops, and pharmacies in the La and Osu Klottey sub-metropolitan areas in Accra. The labels were evaluated against the best practice indicators proposed by the Maternal, Infant, and Young Child Nutrition Working Group based on the international CMBMS, and also indicators based on the NBPR. An overall compliance estimate was determined based on the intensity of compliance with the indicators. Results: The PCF purchased included cereal-based products, fruit juices, fruit and vegetable purees, milk-based products, and combination meals; 75% of PCF were imported. One hundred of the 108 products identified were labeled in English and thus included in the analysis. None of the products complied with all labeling requirements of CMBMS or NBPR; 84 and 17% of product labels complied with at least 50% of NBPR and 50% of CMBMS indicators, respectively. Only 5% of labels had content indicating the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months. Additionally, only 5% of labels warned against the hazard of introducing PCF earlier than 6 months as required by the NBPR. Conclusion: The labeling of most PCFs sold by selected retailers in Accra did not comply with NBPR and CMBMS labeling requirements. Enforcement of local law on labeling of PCF is urgently needed.
Conference on ‘Nutrition dynamics in Africa: opportunities and challenges for meeting the sustainable development goals’
(Proceedings of the Nutrition Society, 2017) Laar, A.K.; Aryeetey, R.N.O.; Mpereh, M.; Zotor, F.B.
Social protection (SP) has been demonstrated as an effective tool against poverty and severe hunger. In Ghana, SP interventions have been employed to address vulnerability to poverty since 1965. Nevertheless, its potential for enhancing nutrition has hardly been explored. To harness the cross-sectoral benefits of scaling up nutrition-sensitive actions in Ghana, the The National Development Planning Commission requested an assessment of nutrition linkages across existing SP policies and programmes. The present paper presents gaps and opportunities for improving the nutrition-sensitivity of existing SP programming in Ghana. The evidence draws heavily on desk review of available published and grey literature. The data show that SP provides an entry point for mainstreaming nutrition into other programmes. However, designing and coupling SP programmes with nutrition programmes remains a challenge in Ghana. Local SP interventions are predominantly designed as standalone services and therefore are implemented independently of each other. To increase synergy between SP and nutrition, including nutrition as an explicit objective of SP policies/strategies is recommended
Contribution of scaling up nutrition Academic Platforms to nutrition capacity strengthening in Africa: local efforts, continental prospects and challenges
(Proceedings of the Nutrition Society, 2017) Laar, A.K.; Aryeetey, R.N.O.; Annan, R.; et al.
Addressing contemporary nutrition problems often requires the application of knowledge from multiple disciplines. The scaling up nutrition (SUN) movement harnesses multiple sectors for effective global and in-country planning and implementation. Although the role of knowledge networks (academia and research institutions) is recognized, the how of engaging knowledge networks in the current SUN architecture is only now becoming apparent. For relevant sectors to play their roles effectively, observed capacity gaps, particularly in developing country settings, need to be addressed. The present paper presents the work being undertaken by the Ghana SUN Academic Platform (AP), a local knowledge network, towards strengthening nutrition capacity in Ghana. The AP presently provides technical support, evidence, and capacity towards scaling up effective nutrition interventions in Ghana and beyond. The data presented draws heavily on the observations and collective experiences of the authors in practice, complemented by a review of relevant literature. The ultimate goal of the AP is to build a cap acity of professionals from nutrition and cognate sectors (including planning, agriculture, health, economics, research, and academia). This is an essential ingredient for effective and durable SUN efforts. The paper recognizes that both disciplinary and interdisciplinary capacity is required for effective SUN efforts in Africa, and offers an approach that utilizes cross-sector/inter-professional, peer-learning, and experiential learning initiatives.
Duration of Exclusive Breastfeeding and Subsequent Child Feeding Adequacy
(Ghana medical journal, 2019-03) Aryeetey, R.N.O.; Goh, Y.E.
Objective: Mothers of young children in Ghana believe that breastfeeding exclusively for six months impairs subsequent introduction of other foods. The current study was designed to determine whether feeding adequacy among 9-23 months old children is influenced by duration of exclusive breastfeeding. Design: We surveyed 300 mother-infant pairs attending child-welfare-clinic at the University of Ghana Hospital, Accra. Data collected included sociodemographic characteristics, morbidity, breastfeeding history, and maternal practices and perception on child feeding and temperament. Current child feeding was assessed using 24-hour dietary recall. Adequately fed children were defined as 9-23 month old children meeting three basic feeding adequacy thresholds: 1) was fed complementary foods, at least three times in the last 24 hours, 2) was fed from at least three food groups, and 3) received breast milk in the last 24 hours. Multiple logistic regressions were used to identify independent predictors of child feeding adequacy. Results: About 66% of children were exclusively breastfed for six months and only 56% were adequately fed in the in the 24 hours preceding the survey. Child feeding adequacy was unrelated to duration of exclusive breastfeeding (OR=0.73; p=0.30). After controlling for child sex, age, and maternal education, the independent determinants of feeding adequacy included recent child morbidity (OR=0.41; p=0.03), number of caregivers who feed child (OR=1.33; p=0.03), and maternal perception that child does not like food (OR=0.25; p<0.01). Child temperament was unrelated to feeding adequacy. Conclusion: Child feeding adequacy is not affected by duration of exclusive breastfeeding. The study provides evidence to address misperceptions about exclusively breastfeeding for six months.
Food Security in Ghanaian Urban Cities: A Scoping Review of the Literature
(nutrients, 2021) Akparibo, R.; Aryeetey, R.N.O.; Asamane, E.A.; Osei-Kwasi, H.A.; Ioannou, E.; Solar, G.I; Cormie, V.; Pereko, K.K.; Amagloh, F.K.; Caton, S.J.; Cecil, J.E.
Urbanisation in Ghana could be negatively impacting the state of food security, especially in economically vulnerable groups. Food supply, safety, and quality are all aspects of food security which could be impacted. We conducted a scoping literature review to understand the nature and magnitude of evidence available on the urban food security situation in Ghana. A literature search was conducted in Medline, CINAHL, Embase, Global Health, Scopus,Web of Science, AfricaWide Information and Google Scholar to identify relevant peer-reviewed and grey literature. 45 studies, mainly cross-sectional surveys/food samples analysis, met the inclusion criteria. The majority of studies were concentrated in the Greater Accra Region (n = 24). Most studies focused on food safety and quality (n = 31). Studies on supply and stability were, however, scarce. Qualitative research methods were uncommon in the included studies. The existing literature on food security are concentrated in two regions: The Greater Accra and Ashanti regions. Future studies exploring food security in urban Ghana should focus on exploring the lived experiences and perceptions of food insecurity and food stability by urban-dwellers using qualitative methods. The evidence suggesting that the safety/quality of foods sold in Ghanaian markets is poor should be a concern to consumers and policy makers.
Livestock ownership, household food security and childhood anaemia in rural Ghana
(Plos One, 2019-07-24) Christian, A.K.; Wilson, M.L.; Aryeetey, R.N.O.; Jones, A.D.
The mechanisms through which livestock ownership is associated with childhood anaemia are contested. Using a cross-sectional, community-based survey of 300 households in southern Ghana, we determined the associations of household livestock ownership with anaemia among children aged 2–5 years. Potential mediating effects of animal-source food (ASF) consumption, microbial infections, and household food security were investigated. Data on each child’s anaemia, malaria, and intestinal infections were collected for a subset of 221 households. Anaemia was defined as a haemoglobin (Hb) concentration <110 g/L. ASF consumption was measured as a count of the number of different ASF types consumed by each child in the week prior to the interview. Household food security was measured with a 15-item, pre-tested tool adapted from the USDA Household Food Security Core Module. The number of sheep and goats in aggregate was associated with higher odds of a child being anaemic (aOR (95% CI) = 1.10 (1.03, 1.17)). Households owning more free-range poultry had greater diversity of consumed ASFs among children (Coef. (95% C) = 0.02 (0.01, 0.03)). Owning more pigs was associated with higher odds that a household was food secure (1.05 (0.99, 1.12). We found no evidence that the child’s ASF consumption mediated the association of livestock ownership with child anaemia, however,household food security mediated the association between household pig ownership and child anaemia. Overall, household ownership of livestock was associated with higher ASF consumption among children and improved household-level food security, yet also a higher odd of anaemia among those young children. The mechanisms leading to these seemingly counterintuitive relationships require further investigation.
Nutrition sensitivity of the 2014 budget statement of Republic of Ghana
(Proceedings of the Nutrition Society, 2015-11) Laar, A.; Aryeetey, R.N.O.; Akparibo, R.; Zotor, F.; The Ghana SUN Academic Platform
Ghana's Constitution and several international treaties she has ratified demonstrate support for fundamental human rights to nutrition and freedom from hunger. However, it is unknown how this support is being translated into investment in nutrition. National budgets are important vehicles through which governments communicate intent to address pertinent national challenges. The present paper assesses the nutrition sensitivity of Ghana's budget statement for the year ending 31 December 2014. We perused the budget in its entirety, examining allocations to various sectors with the goal of identifying support for direct nutrition interventions. We examined allocations to various sectors as per cent of gross domestic product (GDP). The review shows that the total revenue and grants for the 2014 fiscal year is Ghana Cedis (GH¢) 26 001·9 million (25 % of GDP). The total expenditure for the same period is estimated at GH¢34 956·8 million (33·1 % of GDP). The health sector is allocated GH¢3 353 707 814 (3·8 % of GDP). As of 28 October 2014, the Bank of Ghana's Official Exchange Rate was US$1 = GH¢3·20. It is one of the key sectors whose interventions directly or indirectly impact on nutrition. However, the proportion of the national budget that goes to direct nutrition interventions is not evident in the budget. Nutrition is embedded in other budget lines. Allocations to relevant nutrition-sensitive sectors are very low (<0·5 % of GDP). We conclude that Ghana's 2014 budget statement pays scant attention to nutrition. By embedding nutrition in other budget lines, Ghana runs the risk of perpetually rolling out national spending actions insensitive to nutrition
Nutritionally Optimized, Culturally Acceptable, Cost-Minimized Diets for Low Income Ghanaian Families Using Linear Programming
(Nutrients, 2018-04) Nykänen, E.P.A.; Dunning, H.E.; Aryeetey, R.N.O.; Robertson, A.; Parlesak, A.
The Ghanaian population suffers from a double burden of malnutrition. Cost of food is considered a barrier to achieving a health-promoting diet. Food prices were collected in major cities and in rural areas in southern Ghana. Linear programming (LP) was used to calculate nutritionally optimized diets (food baskets (FBs)) for a low-income Ghanaian family of four that fulfilled energy and nutrient recommendations in both rural and urban settings. Calculations included implementing cultural acceptability for families living in extreme and moderate poverty (food budget under USD 1.9 and 3.1 per day respectively). Energy-appropriate FBs minimized for cost, following Food Balance Sheets (FBS), lacked key micronutrients such as iodine, vitamin B12 and iron for the mothers. Nutritionally adequate FBs were achieved in all settings when optimizing for a diet cheaper than USD 3.1. However, when delimiting cost to USD 1.9 in rural areas, wild foods had to be included in order to meet nutritional adequacy. Optimization suggested to reduce roots, tubers and fruits and to increase cereals, vegetables and oil-bearing crops compared with FBS. LP is a useful tool to design culturally acceptable diets at minimum cost for low-income Ghanaian families to help advise national authorities how to overcome the double burden of malnutrition.
Pathways Utilized For Antenatal Health Seeking Among Women In The Ga East District, Ghana
(Ghana Medical Journal, 2015) Aryeetey, R.N.O.; Aikins, M.; Dako-Gyeke, P.; Adongo, P.B.
Background: Ghana’s maternal mortality ratio has been declining over the last two decades but at a rather slow pace. Poor access to effective maternity care is identified as one of the key challenges of maternity care. The current study mapped out the pathways to pregnancy care seeking among urban-dwelling adult women in a peri-urban district located in the Greater Accra region of Ghana. Methods: A total of 300 women who had a live birth in the last 12 months participated in a community-based survey. They answered questions on care-seeking behavior related to their last pregnancy. A multivariate A logistic regression model was used to identify factors associated with multiple care-seeking behavior. Results: Almost all women in the survey (98%) reported accessing skilled antenatal care (ANC) from a bio-medical provider, although 35% began ANC later than the first trimester. About 45% of women simultaneously utilized both ANC and alternative care providers (ACP) including traditional birth attendants, herbalists, and spiritualists. A complex pathway to antenatal care seeking behavior involving shuttling between providers was observed. Controlling for household wealth, household size, and age, seeking care from multiple providers concurrently were associated with residence in Kwabenya sub-district OR=2.13 (95% CI: 1.28, 3.55) and previous abortion OR=2.08 (95% CI: 1.11, 3.91) Conclusions: Urban-dwelling women in Ga East Dis trict seek antenatal care concurrently from multiple sources. Health system interventions must seek ways to integrate alternative care providers into the existing biomedical health care system.
Risks of excess iodine intake in Ghana: current situation, challenges, and lessons for the future
(Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 2018-11) Abu, B.A.Z.; Oldewage-Theron, W.; Aryeetey, R.N.O.
In Ghana, iodine deficiency was first reported in 1994 among 33% of the population. A nationwide Universal Salt Iodization (USI) program plus other complementary interventions were subsequently implemented as a response. Our paper reviews the current risks of excess iodine status in Ghana and identifies policy and research gaps. A mixed methods review of 12 policies and institutional reports and 13 peer‐reviewed articles was complemented with consultations with 23 key informants (salt producers and distributors, food processors, regulatory agency officials, and healthcare providers) purposively sampled between May and August 2017. The findings show a strong policy environment indicated by regulations on food and salt fortification (Act 851), including the USI regulation. However, currently, only a third of Ghanaian households use adequately iodized salt. Recent evidence shows that voluntarily fortified processed foods (including condiments) supply a considerable amount of iodine to the food system. Limited biological impact data suggest possible household exposure to excessive dietary iodine (>15 parts per million). Currently, there is no systematic tracking of iodine content from fortified foods and other sources. Cross‐sectoral actions are needed to understand this situation better. Key research gap is the lack of comprehensive data on iodine content and intake from other sources in Ghana.
State Of Dietetics Practice In Ghana
(Ghana Medical Journal, 2014) Aryeetey, R.N.O.; Boateng, L.; Sackey, D.
Objective: The prevalence of obesity and related diseases has increased in Ghana. Dietitians have essential skills to prevent and manage dietary diseases. However, little is known about dietetic practice in Ghana. This paper describes the history and current state of dietetics practice in Ghana. Methods: A questionnaire was administered to 13 die titians and six dietetic interns in February 2012. The questionnaire collected data on perceptions about die tactics practice, career progression, and challenges in dietetics practice in Ghana. Key informant interviews (KII) on the history of dietetics in Ghana were also held with four retired dietitians and two dietetics educators. Additional KII were conducted with the Chief dietitian, two officers of the Ghana Dietetic Association, and three other dietitians. Most KII were conducted face-to-face but a few were only possible via telephone. Some of the KII were audio-recorded, in addition to handwritten notes. Following the transcription of audio-recorded interviews, all data were subjected to content analysis. Results: Dietetic practice in Ghana has evolved from a low-skilled cadre (catering officers) offering hospital-based meal services to the current era of available trained dietitians providing diet therapy in diverse settings. However, 80% of the 35 dietitians identified are working in Accra. In three regions of Ghana, there are no dietitians. There remain limited opportunities for continuous learning and professional career advancement. Additionally, there are many unqualified diet tians in practice. Conclusion: A huge unmet need for dietitians exists in all regions of Ghana, except Greater Accra. Bridging this gap is essential to increase access to dietetic care throughout Ghana.
State of Dietetics Practice in Ghana: A Nation-Wide Situational Analysis
(Ghana Medical Journal, 2014-12) Aryeetey, R.N.O.; Boateng, L.; Sackey, D.
Objective: Prevalence of obesity and related diseases has increased in Ghana. Dietitians have essential skills to prevent and manage dietary diseases. However, little is known about dietetic practice in Ghana. This paper describes the history and current state of dietetics practice in Ghana. Methods: A questionnaire was administered to 13 dietitians and six dietetic interns in February 2012. The questionnaire collected data on perceptions about dietetics practice, career progression, and challenges in dietetics practice in Ghana. Key informant interviews (KII) on history of dietetics in Ghana were also held with four retired dietitians, and two dietetics educators. Additional KII were conducted with the Chief dietitian, two officers of the Ghana Dietetic Association, and three other dietitians. Most KII were conducted faceto- face but a few were only possible via telephone. Some of the KII were audio-recorded, in addition to handwritten notes. Following transcription of audiorecorded interviews, all data were subjected to content analysis. Results: Dietetic practice in Ghana has evolved from low-skilled cadre (catering officers) offering hospitalbased meal services to the current era of available trained dietitians providing diet therapy in diverse settings. However, 80% of the 35 dietitians identified are working in Accra. In three regions of Ghana, there are no dietitians. There remain limited opportunities for continuous learning and professional career advancement. Additionally, there are many unqualified dietitians in practice. Conclusion: A huge unmet need for dietitians exists in all regions of Ghana, except Greater Accra. Bridging this gap is essential to increase access to dietetic care throughout Ghana.
Subclinical mastitis is common among ghanaian women lactating 3 to 4 months postpartum
(Journal of Human Lactation, 2008-08) Aryeetey, R.N.O.; Marquis, G.S.; Timms, L.; Lartey, A.; Brakohiapa, L.
Subclinical mastitis (SCM) is an asymptomatic inflammation of mammary tissue and has been associated with lactation failure, suboptimal growth in early infancy, and increased risk of mother-to-child transmission of HIV via breast milk. A rapid survey was carried out to determine the prevalence of SCM among lactating Ghanaian women between 3 and 4 months postpartum. Bilateral breast milk samples were obtained from 117 lactating women in Manya Krobo, Ghana and analyzed for sodium (Na) and potassium (K). An elevated sodium/potassium ratio (Na/K) above 1.0 was considered indicative of SCM. Overall, SCM prevalence was observed among 45.3% of the women. About 30% of the women had unilateral SCM. Na/K was associated with maternal age. The high SCM prevalence in Manya Krobo suggests the need for lactation support to reduce SCM and the risk of poor infant outcomes. © 2008 Sage Publications.
Use of Dietary and Herbal Supplements among Elderly Ghanaians in the Keta Municipality
(Journal of Human Nutrition & Food Science, 2015) Aryeetey, R.N.O.; Tamakloe, S.M.
Background: Globally, dietary and herbal supplements (DHS) are used frequently by adults and especially the elderly to control and prevent chronic disease. However, little is known about DHS use in sub-Saharan Africa. We estimated the prevalence and frequency of DHS use among elderly residents of the Keta Municipality in Ghana. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was administered to 580 male and female elderly (65+ years) residents in the Keta municipal area in the Volta region. Respondents were selected using a multi-stage sampling approach involving a random selection of sub-municipalities, communities, and individuals at each level. The survey tool developed for the study collected recall data on socio-demographic characteristics; DHS use behavior, health history, and reasons for using DHS. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent determinants of DSH use. Results: About 42% of respondents reported the use of a DHS in the last month. Almost 90% of users reported the use of multivitamins or mineral supplements. More than 90% reported taking their supplement daily and more than 65% of users took supplements at least twice daily. Elderly who have completed secondary school or a higher level of education were significantly more likely to use any DHS (OR=4.9; 95% CI: 2.08, 4.93). Those who were regularly taking medicines for any diagnosed disease were more likely to also take supplements (OR=17.9; 95% CI: 10.0, 32.0). The main reason for using DHS was to improve health (90.5%). About half of DHS users identified health workers as their prescribing source (59.5%). However, 30% of all users indicated self-prescription for DHS. Conclusion: Multivitamin supplements and to a lesser extent, herbal supplements are used regularly by almost half of elderly Ghanaians residing in the Keta Municipality. The public health system needs to recognize this frequent use of DHS and to assure safety in its use among this critical age group.