Communities In Ghana Research Articles

Cervical precancer screening using self-sampling, HPV DNA testing, and mobile colposcopy in a hard-to-reach community in Ghana: a pilot study

BackgroundThe World Health Organization has set ambitious goals to eliminate cervical cancer, necessitating evidence on increasing coverage and access to screening and treatment in high-burden areas. We implemented a pilot program to assess the feasibility of obtaining self-collected specimens for high-risk human papillomavirus (hr-HPV) testing in Nzulezo stilt village, a hard-to-reach community in Ghana, and inviting only hr-HPV-positive women to a central location for colposcopy and possible treatment. Subsequently, this study aimed to investigate the prevalence of hr-HPV infection and cervical lesions among the women and to explore factors potentially associated with hr-HPV infection among them.MethodsThis pilot community-based cross-sectional study utilized data from screening sessions held from 2 to 20 November 2021 with specimens collected by participants using Evalyn brushes. HPV DNA testing was performed using the Sansure MA-6000 platform, while visual inspection utilized the Enhanced Visual Assessment (EVA) mobile colposcope. Univariate and multivariable nominal logistic regression was employed to explore factors associated with hr-HPV positivity.ResultsAmong 100 women screened (mean age, 43.6 ± 14.5 years), the overall hr-HPV prevalence rate was 39.0% (95% CI, 29.4–49.3). The prevalence rates of hr-HPV genotypes were stratified as follows: HPV16–8.0% (95% CI, 3.5–15.2), HPV18–5.0% (95% CI, 1.6–11.2), and other genotype(s) – 31.0% (95% CI, 22.1–41.0). Single-genotype infections with HPV16 and HPV18 were found in 4.0% (95% CI, 1.1–9.9) and 3.0% (95% CI, 0.6–8.5) of women, respectively. Mixed infections were observed in 1.0% (95% CI, 0.0–5.4) for HPV16 + 18, 3.0% (95% CI, 0.6–8.5) for HPV16 + other type(s), and 1.0% (95% CI, 0.0–5.4) for HPV18 + other type(s). The prevalence of cervical lesions among hr-HPV-positive women screened via colposcopy was 11.4% (95% CI, 3.2–26.7). In the multivariable model, reliance on other sources for medical bill payment was associated with hr-HPV infection (aOR, 0.20; 95% CI, 0.04–0.93), whereas age was not (aOR, 1.02; 95% CI, 0.99–1.05).ConclusionsA high hr-HPV infection prevalence was recorded among the women. Utilizing technologies such as self-sampling, HPV DNA testing, and mobile colposcopy enables screening and treatment in remote and hard-to-reach communities where access to cervical cancer screening and treatment would otherwise be limited. Further research is warranted to assess the value and scalability of this approach in similar remote areas and its potential implementation in future programs.

Developing digital twins of urban low-income communities in Sub-Saharan Africa: a case study in Ghana, West Africa

Low-income urban and rural communities in Sub-Saharan Africa are habitats for more than 556 million profoundly poor people, and the United Nations and the African Union are pessimistic that sustainable development goals will be met. The number of people falling into poverty is increasing, and policy initiatives to reduce poverty have been confounded by various economic, political, social, structural, and environmental issues. Despite a wealth of natural and human assets, there is no systematic approach to sustainable development for poverty alleviation in Sub-Saharan Africa. This case study of an urban community in Ghana, West Africa, investigates the potential role of digital twins in a systematic approach to sustainable development for poverty alleviation. Aerial and community surveys of the built environment and social and economic surveys of businesses and households were compiled to inform a virtual representation of the study area. A small e-commerce business intervention was introduced, and data was recorded for studies on the impact of the intervention. A 3D interactive view, extensive video, and fixed images provided a comprehensive view of the built environment. A limited view of the social and economic environment was obtained from a small population sample. It was observed that online transactions increased in the businesses receiving the e-commerce intervention, demonstrating a willingness of businesses and their customers to engage in e-commerce when incentives are provided. A single successful community-centric initiative has little value unless it can be generalized across the broader society. This limited case study focused on developing and testing virtual and physical constructs to enhance a deeper understanding of the community, community engagement, and pathways to sustainability. The scale of the intervention was too small to conclude generalizability. Future research will focus on improving the data collection processes, fidelity of virtual representations, visualization methods, and methodologies for constructing viable virtual interventions.

NOVA FOOD ACQUISITION AND CONSUMPTION AMONG RURAL AND URBAN HOUSEHOLDS IN SOUTH AFRICA AND GHANA.

This study aims to determine differences in food consumption by the NOVA food categories in South Africa and Ghana and how they relate to poverty and food supply systems. This study used a cross-sectional design to assess household food acquisition and lived poverty index. The study was conducted in Khayelitsha and Mount Frere, urban and rural communities in South Africa, respectively, and Ahodwo and Ejuratia, urban and rural communities in Ghana, respectively. An adult in charge of or knowledgeable about household food acquisition and consumption was selected to participate in the study. A total of 1299 households participated in the study. Supermarkets were a prominent source of ultra-processed foods for households in South Africa, while informal outlets were an important source of ultra-processed foods in Ghana. Consumption of unprocessed foods was higher among South African households (58.2%) than Ghanaian households (41.8%). In South Africa, deprivation was associated with increased odds of infrequent consumption of both unprocessed foods (OR 3.431 p<0.001) and ultra-processed foods (OR 2.656 p<0.001) compared to non-deprivation. In Ghana, no significant associations were observed between household deprivation and consumption of the NOVA food classes. Different food supply systems and poverty are associated with household acquisition of the different NOVA food classes. Policies should be geared towards formal shops in South Africa and informal shops in Ghana to reduce the consumption of key obesogenic foods.

Predictors of Blood Lipid and Renal Function Screening among Adults in a Peri-Urban Community in Ghana: A Combined Logistic and Dominance Analysis Approach

Objective: Despite the critical role of screening in reducing the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), its uptake remains low, particularly in peri-urban settings. This study aimed to identify and rank predictors of screening behaviors for blood lipid/cholesterol and renal function in a peri-urban community in Ghana. Methods: Secondary cross-sectional data from 136 adults aged 18–60, collected in January 2023, were analyzed. Associations and relative importance were examined using bootstrapped logistic regression and dominance analysis models. Results: Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified age (35-60 years) (aOR:7.6, 95% CI: 1.2–50.6) and employment status (aOR:4.4, 95% CI: 1.1–17.6) as significant predictors of renal screening. For blood lipid screening, significant predictors included body mass index (BMI) screening (aOR:3.6, 95% CI: 1.4–9.1) and diploma-level education (aOR:5.4, 95% CI: 1.3–21.8). Dominance analysis, which assesses the relative importance of predictors, revealed that age, blood glucose screening, and employment were the most important predictors for renal screening. In contrast, BMI and a history of raised blood pressure were the leading predictors for blood lipid screening. Conclusions: These findings highlight the need for targeted health promotion strategies that integrate comprehensive screening packages within broader health services, addressing the specific needs of various educational and occupational groups. Enhanced public health interventions could improve screening rates and contribute to better management of NCDs in peri-urban settings.

Weed community differences in row crops with varying input levels in Ghana

Abstract Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) and maize (Zea mays L.) are essential crops for Ghana’s economy and food security, but weed infestation poses a significant threat to their cultivation. Crop rotations influence weed communities, but little is known about these processes in peanut-cropping systems in West Africa. This study investigated the impact of different crop rotations and input levels on weed communities in Ghana over 3 yr. Results showed that low inputs (absence of herbicide and fertilization) favored species richness, while higher input levels (weed control with herbicides and fertilizer use) reduced it. Diversity and evenness were also affected by inputs, with varying patterns across locations and seasons. Weed population growth rates (λ) varied significantly by location and treatment; all management programs resulted in increasing weed populations. Principal component analysis revealed distinct associations between weed species and crop management. The majority of weed species exhibited a generalist behavior and did not associate with a particular management. However, billygoat weed (Ageratum conyzoides L.) and Benghal dayflower (Commelina benghalensis L.) were positively associated with high-input systems, while purple nutsedge (Cyperus rotundus L.) exhibited strong associations with low and medium inputs. The weed–crop rotation dynamics described here demonstrate how management drives the selection of weed species that are more pervasive and interfere with important food crops in Ghanaian agriculture.

Communication through popular culture: Analyzing a googi performance on early marriage among the Kusaas of Ghana

This work investigates the use of a popular cultural performance called googi, to advocate against early marriage and its associated cases of adolescent pregnancies in Kusaal speaking communities in Ghana. It highlights how a local cultural artist employs the power of an indigenous language to skillfully address a significant socio-cultural issue. This research analyses the literary techniques employed by the artist in her didactic performance which challenges cultural norms that endorse early marriage. The artist advocates for social transformation through education underscoring the causes of early marriage as including socio-economic and cultural factor. The findings demonstrate that the persuasive use of indigenous language in popular cultural performances serves as great instruments for communication, advocacy and entertainment in rural communities.

Gbobalɔi and the Language of Naming: A Study of Revenant Children in Ga Communities in Ghana

This ethnographic study examines the naming practices of revenant children otherwise known as gbobalɔi, in the Ga communities of Ghana. It delves into the cultural beliefs associated with these children, the rituals performed during their naming ceremonies, and the implications of their unique names. Focusing on the Osu traditional area within the Greater Accra Region, the research utilised an explorative and descriptive approach. The sample comprised five elderly individuals, three men and two women chosen for their deep knowledge of local cultural practices related to gbobalɔi naming. Data was collected through interviews with strict adherence to ethical considerations like informed consent and confidentiality. The study finds that gbobalɔi are perceived as reincarnated spirits necessitating specific rituals and names for community integration. The names given often carry negative connotations or reflect the circumstances of their birth, intended to dissuade spiritual forces from claiming them. The research also addresses the challenges of preserving these traditions amidst modern influences. Overall, the study enhances understanding of naming practices in African societies and emphasises the role of names as crucial markers of identity and social roles.

Prevalence of schistosomiasis among school children at Esuekyir community in the Central Region of Ghana

Schistosomiasis, an endemic neglected tropical disease in areas with poor sanitation, causes physical and mental defects in both children and adults. Various strategies, especially drug administration for morbidity control, have been implemented to combat the disease in Ghana and globally. Despite these efforts, schistosomiasis remains prevalent in Ghana, negatively impacting children's academic performance, growth, and overall quality of life. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of schistosomiasis in school children at Esuekyir, a peri-urban community in Ghana. A cross-sectional study using simple random sampling technique to select participants and collect stool and urine samples from 246 school children in Esuekyir was adopted. Microscopy of urine and stool samples was performed involving urine sedimentation and stool formol-ether sedimentation techniques to analyse for parasite eggs. Questionnaires were developed to help detect risk factors that expose these children to the disease. The prevalence of urogenital schistosomiasis in children at Esuekyir was 15.45% while that of intestinal schistosomiasis was 6.957.0%. There was one case of co-infection of urogenital and intestinal schistosomiasis from a 13 year old primary student. Children in primary school had higher risks of infection due to their activities around the water body. There was a significant association between class groups and urogenital schistosomiasis (p-value = 0.042). The presence of schistosomiasis in school children highlights the importance of targeted interventions and public health initiatives in addressing this specific disease condition especially in primary school children. Findings from the research revealed a higher prevalence of urogenital schistosomiasis in the study population as compared to intestinal schistosomiasis.

Ongoing transmission of onchocerciasis in the Pru District of Ghana after two decades of mass drug administration with ivermectin and comparative identification of members of the Simulium damnosum complex using cytological and morphological techniques

Background Human onchocerciasis remains a public health problem in Ghana. Mass drug administration (MDA) with ivermectin (IVM) has reduced disease morbidity and prevalence, but the transmission of onchocerciasis remains ongoing in several endemic foci. We investigated parasite transmission in some endemic communities in Ghana that had received > 18 rounds of annual MDA with IVM and determined the species composition of black fly (Simulium damnosum) vectors in these areas.MethodsAdult female black flies were collected using human landing catches and identified as either forest or savanna species using morpho-taxonomic keys. The adult flies underwent dissection to determine their parity and detect any O. volvulus larvae, followed by the calculation of entomological indices. Simulium damnosum s.l. larvae were collected and preserved in freshly prepared Carnoy’s fixative and were later used for cytotaxonomic studies.ResultsA total of 9,983 adult flies were caught: 6,569 and 3,414 in the rainy and dry seasons respectively. Black fly biting activities over the study period showed bimodal or trimodal patterns. The highest monthly biting rate (MBR) of 10,578.75 bites/person/month was recorded in July in Beposo, while the highest monthly transmission potential of 100.69 infective bites/person/month was recorded in Asubende in August. Morphological analysis of 2,032 flies showed that 99.8% (2,028) of the flies were savanna species, with only 4 (0.2%) adult flies being of the forest species. Cytogenetic studies on 114 black fly larvae revealed three cytospecies (Simulium damnosum s.s., S. sirbanum and S. sanctipauli) in the study area.ConclusionsThe present studies confirmed an ongoing transmission of onchocerciasis in the study communities except Abua-1. It also provides further information on biting behaviors and onchocerciasis transmission indices in the study communities. Further, our data confirmed the savanna species (S. damnosum s.s. and S. sirbanum) of the S.damnosum s.l. to be the major vectors of onchocerciasis in the study areas, with only an occasional influx of forest cytotypes.Graphical

The costs of implementing anaemia reduction interventions among women fish processors in Ghana

BackgroundAnaemia among women of reproductive age (WRA) remains persistently high in Ghana, affecting 41% in 2022. Women in low-income communities in Ghana engaged in fish processing activities are at increased risk of anaemia due to inadequate diets, exposure to infectious pathogens, and pollutants. The Invisible Fishers (IFs) project was implemented among women fish processors in their reproductive age in Central and Volta regions of Ghana to mitigate anaemia. Despite the efficacy, feasibility and scalability of the intervention, the cost of implementing the intervention is unknown. The objective of this study was to estimate the costs of implementing the IFs project in Ghana.MethodsWe used micro-costing approach to analyse the costs of implementing the IFs project. Data were collected as part of a pilot randomized control trial with three interventions: Behaviour Change Communication (BCC), Strengthening Market Engagement of fish processors plus Behaviour Change Communication (SME + BCC), and Fish Smoking Technology and Practices plus Behaviour Change Communication (FST + BCC). The interventions were delivered to 60 women fish processors in the Central region and 60 in Volta region. The cost of the intervention was estimated from the societal perspective. Economic costs were categorized as direct costs (i.e. personnel, transportation, meetings, training, and monitoring) and indirect cost (i.e. value of productive time lost due to women and community volunteers’ participation in the activities of the IFs project).ResultsThe FST + BCC had the highest average cost per beneficiary (US$11898.62), followed by the SME + BCC (US8962.93). The least expensive was the BCC (US$4651.93) over the intervention period of 18 months. Recurrent costs constituted the largest component of economic costs (98%). Key drivers of direct costs were personnel (58%), administrative expenses (14%), and transportation (7%).ConclusionThere is a high cost for implementing interventions included in the IFs project. Planning and scaling -up of the interventions across larger populations could bring about economies of scale to reduce the average cost of the interventions.

Creating communities that care: social representation of mental health in two urban poor communities in Ghana

Building caring communities is fundamental to achieving a community-based approach to mental health. Understanding how communities perceive mental illness provides critical insight into fostering mental health awareness and care. We explored the perceptions of mental illness among members of two urban poor communities in Accra, Ghana. Qualitative data were collected from 77 participants through key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and situated conversations. Using theory-driven thematic analysis based on social representations theory, findings revealed cognitive-emotional representations of mental illness. The communities demonstrated high awareness of the multilevel factors contributing to mental illness risk and experiences, drawing on five sources of knowledge: embodied, common sense, medical, cultural, and religious. Mental illness representations informed the classification and legitimization of mental illness based on the severity of conditions and the identity of sufferers. These findings provide valuable insights for planning community mental health interventions that address both social and institutional care needs.

Sustainable Groundwater Purification: Leveraging Local Materials for Lead, Iron, and Cyanide Removal in Ghanaian Mining Communities

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Moringa Oleifera seeds and banana peels as natural coagulants for the removal of lead, iron, and cyanide from groundwater in mining-affected communities in Ghana. Experimental laboratory analysis was used to analyze groundwater samples collected from five mining communities in the Atwima-Kwanwoma and Obuasi East districts of the Ashanti Region, Ghana, and treated with Moringa oleifera seeds and banana peels as natural coagulants. The concentrations of E. coli, cyanide, lead, and iron were measured before and after treatment. The study found a 100% removal efficiency for E. coli, cyanide, lead, and iron after treatment with Moringa oleifera seeds and banana peels. These results align with previous studies indicating the efficacy of these natural coagulants in water purification as the Moringa oleifera seeds and banana peels are effective, low-cost natural coagulants for removing contaminants from groundwater in mining communities.

Violence and Abuse Towards Grandparent Kinship Carers in Informal Kinship Care Context

Violence and abuse by grandchildren towards their grandparent kinship carers is an important but under-researched issue. Research evidence on the perceived legitimacy of aged-related myths, beliefs, and witchcraft accusations against older people, especially grandparents, in Ghana and Africa suggest that violence and abuse against grandparent kinship carers could be common. This study explored the types of violence or abuse experienced by grandparent kinship carers, and the meanings grandparents associate with the abuse. Thirty-one grandparents were recruited from four communities in Ghana following a horizontal network sampling approach and interviewed using a qualitative in-depth narrative storytelling strategy. Analysis of the narratives revealed three common types of abuse experienced by the grandparent kinship carers which were perpetrated by children living under their care: (1) insults and verbal abuse, (2) stealing and financial exploitation, and (3) physical threats. However, the grandparents rationalised and justified the abusive behaviours by attributing them to factors within the children’s eco-system, such as friends and household members. The findings highlighted three crucial interrelated factors that underlie these incidents of violence including cultural beliefs around witchcraft, family structural dynamics, and grandparents’ attitudes towards violence. Practical recommendations, including the development of a community normative change program, have been proposed to address violence by grandchildren towards grandparent kinship carers in Ghana.

Determinants of poverty in rural cocoa farming communities in Ghana: unidimensional and multidimensional analysis

Determinants of poverty in rural cocoa farming communities in Ghana: unidimensional and multidimensional analysis

Determinants of Skin Diseases among Women in Rural Mining Communities: A Case Study of Mpohor District

Women in rural mining communities in Ghana are at higher threat of skin diseases due to the lax mining regulations in the country and the potential for increased exposure to environmental and occupational risk factors. Hence, investigating the prevalence and determining factors of skin diseases among women in resource-poor settings in Ghana is essential. This research intended to ascertain the prevalence of skin diseases among women in rural mining communities in the Mpohor District, Ghana, and identifying the determinants of skin diseases among the women.

Is Adult Education Related to Community Development? An Exploratory Study in Ghana

This paper draws on Freire’s social philosophy arguing that adult education (AE) relates to community development (CD). The provision of AE opportunities serves as bait for community members (CMs) to participate in CD projects. This exploratory study undertaken in Ghana, interviewed 9 PhD students on how AE relates to CD, and how adult educators revive waning self-help spirit for CD projects, and networking to sustain communities. Data was analyzed using thematic, narrative and interpretivist approaches. The results revealed that AE create awareness in CMs to participate in self-help CD projects; yet, more inclusive and transformational dialogue and education among CMs are broadly required. The study recommends that adult educators’ leverage group learning and networking in CD projects to improve communities in Ghana.

Relationship Between Food Security, Dietary Intake, Physical Activity Levels and Glycaemic Status of Adults in A Peri-Urban Community in Ghana

Relationship Between Food Security, Dietary Intake, Physical Activity Levels and Glycaemic Status of Adults in A Peri-Urban Community in Ghana

Challenges of parents of young adults misusing psychoactive substances in small-scale mining communities in Ghana

Challenges of parents of young adults misusing psychoactive substances in small-scale mining communities in Ghana

Social Group Membership, Social Identities, and Mental Health Experiences in Urban Poor Communities in Ghana: A Critical Social Psychology Inquiry.

Social groups and identities significantly influence mental health outcomes, yet their impact in resource-poor communities remains understudied. We explored the role of social group memberships and identities in shaping mental health experiences in two urban poor communities in Ghana. Data from 77 participants were analyzed thematically, revealing widespread engagement in social groups that provide access to both material and symbolic resources. However, these groups also serve as sources of tension and contribute to the stigmatization and marginalization of vulnerable members. Those affected include individuals with severe mental disorders, men experiencing depression, young men involved in substance abuse, family caregivers, migrant and tenant households, and otherwise healthy individuals with recurring psychosocial challenges. The groups exacerbate mental health challenges and restrict access to care among marginalized populations. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions aimed at enhancing mental health support and reducing stigma in resource-poor settings.

Assessing the Economic Viability of Solar Electrification Against Grid Extension in Rural Ghana

Electricity availability is crucial for socioeconomic development, particularly in developing nations' rural areas. As a result, solar electrification has therefore been recommended as a more sustainable and cost-effective option for rural electrification. The research aim was to compare the economic viability of solar electrification against grid extension in rural Ghana, by examining the cost-benefit of solar electrification and grid extension and identifying the most cost-effective and sustainable approach for providing electricity to rural communities in Ghana. Hundred respondents were selected for this study using a simple random sampling technique. Most respondents believe that solar systems are cheaper to install estimating between GHS 40000 and GHS 50000 compared to grid extensions which averages about GHS 320000, as they can be installed by professionals. Solar electricity offers a good return on investment and doesn't require monthly bills, making it economically sound. Maintenance is easy and cost- efficient compared to grid extensions. Solar electrification doesn't emit carbon emissions of greenhouse gases, and it improves grid security. Most respondents agree that solar electrification generates employment opportunities and is cost-competitive with conventional electricity. They also believe solar energy ensures clean energy for sustainable development and poverty alleviation. Solar electrification is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to grid extension, reducing carbon footprint and providing reliable power. Its initial capital investment is crucial for its economic viability. The study recommends research on hybrid systems integrating solar electrification with grid extension, exploring new technologies like energy storage and smart grids, and exploring regulatory frameworks and policy incentives to promote private sector investments in solar electrification in rural Ghana.