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Nsanya MK, Abramson R, Kisigo GA, Hickner A, Nyanza EC, Peck RN, Kapiga SH. Hypertension among adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1251817. [PMID: 38155990 PMCID: PMC10754047 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1251817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Hypertension (HTN) among adolescents is common in high-income countries, and leads to increased premature cardiovascular diseases (CVD). In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), the prevalence of HTN among adolescents, associated risk factors and CVD complications are not well-described. Such data is needed for planning public health programs to prevent premature CVD in SSA. Methods We systematically searched 5 databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and African Index Medicus) from their establishment to December 2021. Key search terms were: adolescent, arterial hypertension, and names of the 48 countries in SSA. We used Covidence® to manage the search results. The review was registered in the Open Science Framework (OSF) https://osf.io/p5sbt/. Results We identified 4,008 articles out of which we screened 3,088 abstracts, and reviewed 583 full-text articles. We finally included 92 articles that were published between 1968 to December 2021. The majority were cross-sectional studies (80%) and conducted in school settings (78%). The risk of bias was low for 59 studies (64.1%), moderate for 29 studies (31.5%), and high for 4 studies (4.3%). Overall, the prevalence of HTN varied widely from 0.18% to 34.0% with a median (IQR) of 5.5% (3.1%, 11.1%). It was relatively higher in studies using automated blood pressure (BP) devices, and in studies defining HTN using thresholds based on percentile BP distribution for one's height, age, and sex. In addition, the prevalence of HTN was significantly higher in studies from Southern Africa region of SSA and positively correlated with the year of publication. Across studies, traditional risk factors such as age, sex, body mass index, and physical inactivity, were commonly found to be associated with HTN. In contrast, non-traditional risk factors related to poverty and tropical diseases were rarely assessed. Only three studies investigated the CVD complications related to HTN in the study population. Conclusion The prevalence of HTN among adolescents in SSA is high indicating that this is a major health problem. Data on non-traditional risk factors and complications are scarce. Longitudinal studies are needed to clearly define the rates, causes, and complications of HTN. Systematic Review Registration https://osf.io/p5sbt/, identifier (10.17605/OSF.IO/P5SBT).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mussa K Nsanya
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit/National Institute for Medical Research, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Rachel Abramson
- Weill Cornell Medicine - Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Godfrey A Kisigo
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit/National Institute for Medical Research, Mwanza, Tanzania
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andy Hickner
- Weill Cornell Medicine - Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Elias C Nyanza
- Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences, School of Public Health, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Robert N Peck
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit/National Institute for Medical Research, Mwanza, Tanzania
- Weill Cornell Medicine - Cornell University, New York, NY, United States
- Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences, School of Public Health, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Saidi H Kapiga
- Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit/National Institute for Medical Research, Mwanza, Tanzania
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Adetunji AE, Adeniran KA, Olomu SC, Odike AI, Ewah-Odiase RO, Omoike IU, Akpede GO. Socio-demographic factors associated with overweight and obesity among primary school children in semi-urban areas of mid-western Nigeria. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0214570. [PMID: 30943233 PMCID: PMC6447222 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0214570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 03/17/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many developing countries are in a state of nutritional transition from prevalent under-nutrition to the emergent problem of over-nutrition (overweight and obesity), which is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, and whose complications can persist into adulthood with long-term consequences. However, data are limited on the risk factors for overweight and obesity (O&O) among primary school children, particularly those in rural and semi-urban areas in these countries. AIM AND OBJECTIVES To determine the socio-demographic factors associated with overweight and obesity among primary school children in semi-urban areas. SUBJECTS AND METHODS 1187 school pupils aged 6-11 years recruited from semi-urban areas using multistage sampling were interviewed for risk factors of overweight and obesity using a structured questionnaire. Nutritional status was assessed using body mass index and this was classified using a standard method. The proportions were compared using Pearson's chi-squared. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was also carried out with overweight and obesity as the dependent variable and socio demographic factors as independent variables. The level of statistical significance was set at p <0.05 in all the statistical analyses. RESULTS Fifty-eight pupils (4.9%) had overweight and obesity while 1129 (95.1%) were either of normal nutritional status (1088, 91.6%) or were thin/severely thin (41, 3.5%). Among those with overweight and obesity, 41 (3.5%) were overweight and 17 (1.4%) obese. A higher prevalence of overweight and obesity was significantly associated (in unadjusted analysis) with female gender [unadjusted Odds Ratio, OR (95% CI) = 2.42 (1.37, 4.28)], attendance at private schools [OR (95% CI) = 3.34 (1.86, 6.00)], higher socio-economic status families [OR (95% CI) = 2.32 (1.65, 5.80)] and presence of a television in the pupil's bedrooms [OR (95% CI) = 2.22 (1.02, 4.82)] on bivariate analyses. However, only gender, school type and family socioeconomic status were independently associated with overweight and obesity on multivariate logistic regression analysis. CONCLUSION We conclude that overweight and obesity among primary school pupils in semi-urban areas is associated with female gender, attendance at private schools and higher socioeconomic status families. Preventive programmes should accordingly be more directed at children from affluent families; particularly those who are females and those attending private schools.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sylvia Chinwendu Olomu
- Department of Paediatrics, Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo Sate, Nigeria
| | - Angela Ifeoma Odike
- Department of Paediatrics, Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo Sate, Nigeria
| | - Rosemary Omonigho Ewah-Odiase
- Department of Paediatrics, Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo Sate, Nigeria
| | | | - George Obozokhale Akpede
- Department of Paediatrics, Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo Sate, Nigeria
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Okpokowuruk FS, Akpan MU, Ikpeme EE. Prevalence of hypertension and prehypertension among children and adolescents in a semi-urban area of Uyo Metropolis, Nigeria. Pan Afr Med J 2017; 28:303. [PMID: 29854068 PMCID: PMC5966115 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2017.28.303.14396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction In the past, Hypertension in childhood was not considered a problem but in the last few decades, it has gradually become a source of concern especially as children are known to maintain their blood pressures into adulthood. Therefore, hypertensive children are at risk of developing cardiovascular complications earlier in adulthood. In our own environment, the prevalence of hypertension in children is undocumented, hence the purpose of this study. Methods Two hundred children aged between 3-17 years were recruited into this study from two public schools-one primary, one secondary in a semi urban community in Uyo metropolis. The blood pressure of respondents was measured in accordance with the technique described by the 4th Task Force on Blood Pressure Control in Children. The height and weight of all eligible subjects was measured using a stadiometer and a calibrated scale respectively. Body Mass Index (BMI) was assessed for each subject and World Health Organization (WHO) charts of BMI for age and sex were used as reference standards. Waist circumference was measured according to the technique described in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Results The prevalence of hypertension and prehypertension was found to be 3.5% and 2.5% respectively in this study. Only age (OR = 1.74, p = 0.005, 95%CI = 1.186-2.566), BMI (OR = 1.54, p = <0.001, 95% CI = 1.249-1.913) and waist circumference (OR = 1.16, p = 0.002, 95%CI = 1.056-1.271) were found to significantly predict the development of high blood pressure. Conclusion The prevalence of hypertension and prehypertension in this study was found to be low. Hypertension/prehypertension was more likely to develop with increasing age, BMI and waist circumference.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances Sam Okpokowuruk
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
| | - Mkpouto Udeme Akpan
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
| | - Enobong Emmanuel Ikpeme
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
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Muthuri SK, Francis CE, Wachira LJM, LeBlanc AG, Sampson M, Onywera VO, Tremblay MS. Evidence of an overweight/obesity transition among school-aged children and youth in Sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review. PLoS One 2014; 9:e92846. [PMID: 24676350 PMCID: PMC3968060 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0092846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2013] [Accepted: 02/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prevalence of childhood overweight/obesity has increased considerably in recent years. The transition to higher rates of overweight/obesity has been well documented in high income countries; however, consistent or representative data from lower income countries is scarce. It is therefore pertinent to assess if rates of overweight/obesity are also increasing in lower income countries, to inform public health efforts. OBJECTIVE This systematic review aimed to investigate the evidence for an overweight/obesity transition occurring in school-aged children and youth in Sub Saharan Africa. METHODS Studies were identified by searching the MEDLINE, Embase, Africa Index Medicus, Global Health, Geobase, and EPPI-Centre electronic databases. Studies that used subjective or objective metrics to assess body composition in apparently healthy or population-based samples of children and youth aged 5 to 17 years were included. RESULTS A total of 283 articles met the inclusion criteria, and of these, 68 were used for quantitative synthesis. The four regions (West, Central, East, and South) of Sub Saharan Africa were well represented, though only 11 (3.9%) studies were nationally representative. Quantitative synthesis revealed a trend towards increasing proportions of overweight/obesity over time in school-aged children in this region, as well as a persistent problem of underweight. Weighted averages of overweight/obesity and obesity for the entire time period captured were 10.6% and 2.5% respectively. Body composition measures were found to be higher in girls than boys, and higher in urban living and higher socioeconomic status children compared to rural populations or those of lower socioeconomic status. CONCLUSIONS This review provides evidence for an overweight/obesity transition in school-aged children in Sub Saharan Africa. The findings of this review serve to describe the region with respect to the growing concern of childhood overweight/obesity, highlight research gaps, and inform interventions. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42013004399.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella K. Muthuri
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Claire E. Francis
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Allana G. LeBlanc
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Margaret Sampson
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vincent O. Onywera
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Mark S. Tremblay
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya
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Muthuri SK, Wachira LJM, Leblanc AG, Francis CE, Sampson M, Onywera VO, Tremblay MS. Temporal trends and correlates of physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and physical fitness among school-aged children in Sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2014; 11:3327-59. [PMID: 24658411 PMCID: PMC3987037 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph110303327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2014] [Revised: 03/07/2014] [Accepted: 03/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Recent physical activity (PA) and fitness transitions, identified as behavioural shifts from traditionally active lifestyles to more industralised and sedentary lifestyles, have been observed among school-aged children. There is a wealth of supporting evidence of such behavioural transitions in high income countries; however, a paucity of data on lower income countries exists. These transitions pose a particular threat to the welfare of children by accelerating the onset of chronic diseases. This systematic review investigated the evidence for a PA and fitness transition among Sub-Saharan Africa's school-aged children. Temporal trends and correlates of PA, SB, and fitness were examined. Studies were identified by searching the Medline, Embase, Africa Index Medicus, Global Health, Geobase, and EPPI-Centre electronic databases, and were included if they measured outcomes of interest in apparently healthy samples of children (5‒17 years). A total of 71 articles met the inclusion criteria (40 informed PA, 17 informed SB, and 37 informed fitness). Vast heterogeneity in study methodology complicated analysis of transitions over time and no temporal trends were immediately discernible. However, higher socioeconomic status, urban living, and female children were found to engage in lower levels of PA, higher SB, and performed worse on aerobic fitness measures compared to lower socioeconomic status, rural living, and male children. Data revealed that urbanization was associated with a trend towards decreased PA, increased SB, and decreased aerobic fitness over time. Representative, temporally sequenced data examining a PA and fitness transition are lacking in this region (PROSPERO Registration Number: CRD42013004399).
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella K Muthuri
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, 401 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L1, Canada.
| | - Lucy-Joy M Wachira
- Department of Recreation Management and Exercise Science, Kenyatta University, P.O. Box 43844, Nairobi, 00100, Kenya.
| | - Allana G Leblanc
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, 401 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L1, Canada.
| | - Claire E Francis
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, 401 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L1, Canada.
| | - Margaret Sampson
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, 401 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L1, Canada.
| | - Vincent O Onywera
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, 401 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L1, Canada.
| | - Mark S Tremblay
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, 401 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L1, Canada.
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