The Socio-Cultural and Socio-Economic Context of Africa’s Chronic Disease Burden

Abstract

There is increasing recognition that the socio-cultural and socio-economic contexts are important mediating factors for chronic non-communicable disease risks and experiences. In this chapter I situate the burden of NCDs in Ghana and sub-Saharan Africa within the socio-cultural and socio-economic contexts. Drawing on available research evidence I discuss the role of social and cultural norms and socio-economic status of individuals and nations on the major risk factors of NCDs: diets, physical activity, alcohol overconsumption and smoking. I consider the implications for research and intervention.