Influence of Culture on Obesity and Overweight among Ghanaian Adults

Abstract

Objectives: This study investigates the influence of culture on obesity and overweight among Ghanaian adults, aiming to identify key cultural practices that contribute to these health issues. Study Design: A descriptive survey research design was used to explore the relationship between cultural practices and obesity. The population included over 15 million adults in Ghana, with a sample of 500 participants selected through convenience sampling. Methodology: Data were collected through a self-administered online questionnaire focusing on cultural dietary practices and lifestyle behaviors. Descriptive statistics, such as frequencies and percentages, were used to analyze the responses. Results: The findings reveal that cultural practices, such as frequent consumption of fried foods (62% of respondents) and sugary drinks (60%), significantly contribute to obesity. Additionally, cultural events like traditional festivals were identified by 68% of participants as promoting unhealthy eating habits, while 79% of respondents linked sedentary lifestyles, exacerbated by urbanization, to the increasing prevalence of obesity. Conclusion: Cultural practices significantly influence dietary habits and physical activity levels among Ghanaian adults, underscoring the necessity for culturally tailored public health interventions. Implications for Public Health: The findings suggest a pressing need for public health interventions that incorporate cultural sensitivity, particularly in promoting healthier eating and encouraging physical activity at social events. Such interventions can be more effective if they align with existing cultural norms. Limitations: One limitation of this study is the use of convenience sampling, which may introduce bias and limit the generalizability of the findings. Future research should consider more randomized sampling techniques to better represent the broader population.