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Tawiah P, Mensah PB, Gyabaah S, Adebanji AO, Konadu E, Amoah I. Gait speed and its associated factors among older black adults in Sub-Saharan Africa: Evidence from the WHO study on Global AGEing in older adults (SAGE). PLoS One 2024; 19:e0295520. [PMID: 38635683 PMCID: PMC11025960 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Gait speed is an essential predictor of functional and cognitive decline in older adults. The study aimed to investigate the gait speed of older adults in Ghana and South Africa and to determine its associated factors, as the Sub-Saharan representatives in the World Health Organization's Study on Global AGEing in Older Adults (SAGE). A secondary analysis of data from the SAGE study which consists of nationally representative data involving participants aged ≥50+ years with smaller samples of younger adults aged 18-49 years in Ghana and South Africa was conducted. SAGE study employed a multistage, stratified clustered sample design and involved the use of a standardised questionnaire to obtain participants' (n = 5808) demographic, anthropometric and gait speed information. The standard 4 metre-gait speed was used. Median gait speed for the study group, which comprised African/Black participants aged ≥50+ years was 0.769(Q1 = 0.571, Q3 = 0.952)m/s for males and 0.667 (Q1 = 0.500,Q3 = 0.833)m/s for females. For every unit increase in age, the odds of being in a higher-ranked gait speed category was 0.96(95%CI 0·96, 0·97, p<0.001) times that of the previous age. Females had odds of 0.55 (95%CI 0.50, 0.61, p<0.001) of recording higher gait speed, as compared to males. Rural dwellers had odds of 1.43 (95%CI 1.29, 1.58, p < 0.001) of being in a higher-ranked category of gait speed compared to urban dwellers. Underweight (OR = 0.85, 95%C1 = 0.73-1.00, p<0.05) and obesity (OR = 0.53, 95%CI = 0.46-0.61, p<0.001) were associated with slower gait speed. Amongst functional indices, the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS) score was the biggest determinant of gait speed. Having a "Severe/Extreme" WHODAS score had the strongest association with gait speed (OR = 0.18, 95%CI = 0.14-0.23, p<0.001). These gait speed results provide an essential reference for older adults' care in Ghana and South Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phyllis Tawiah
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Dentistry, College of Health Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | | | - Atinuke Olusola Adebanji
- Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Emmanuel Konadu
- School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Isaac Amoah
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Gyabaah S, Adu-Boakye Y, Sarfo-Kantanka O, Gyan KF, Kokuro C, Agyei M, Akassi J, Tawiah P, Norman B, Ovbiagele B, Sarfo FS. Frequency & factors associated with elevated lipoprotein-a among Ghanaian stroke survivors. J Neurol Sci 2024; 456:122839. [PMID: 38103418 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2023.122839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Indigenous Africans are genetically predisposed to elevated lipoprotein-a (Lp(a)), a veritable risk factor for ischemic stroke. Recent studies have demonstrated the promising efficacy of therapeutic interventions for addressing elevated Lp(a) among patients at high risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular events. It is important to assess the burden of elevated Lp(a) among stroke survivors of African ancestry aimed at addressing potential unmet therapeutic gaps for optimal secondary prevention. PURPOSE To assess the frequency of elevated lipoprotein-a among Ghanaian stroke survivors and factors associated with it. METHODS A prospective study conducted at the Neurology clinic of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital among ischemic stroke survivors aged ≥18 years. Serum lipoprotein-a concentrations were measured using ELISA kits. A multivariate regression analysis was fitted to identify factors independently associated with elevated lipoprotein-a concentration > 30 mg/dl. RESULTS Among 116 stroke survivors, 35 (30.2%) had elevated Lp(a). The adjusted odds ratio (95% CI) of factors associated with elevated Lp(a) were female sex 3.09 (1.05-9.12), p = 0.04, diabetes mellitus 3.52 (1.32-9.40), p = 0.01, urban dwelling 4.64 (1.61-13.39), p = 0.005 and total cholesterol 1.85 (1.28-2.67), p = 0.001. Whereas the LDL cholesterol significantly decreased from baseline to month 12 among a subset of participants, the Lp(a) levels significantly increased from a baseline value of 29.38 ± 15.32 mg/dl to 40.97 ± 29.72 mg/dl, p = 0.032. CONCLUSION Approximately 1 in 3 Ghanaian ischemic stroke survivors harbor an elevated Lp(a) associated with female sex, urban residence, diabetes mellitus and raised cholesterol. This burden highlights an unmet therapeutic gap in secondary risk reduction in this resource-limited setting.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yaw Adu-Boakye
- Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana; Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Osei Sarfo-Kantanka
- Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana; Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Collins Kokuro
- Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana; Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Martin Agyei
- Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana; Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - John Akassi
- Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana; Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Phyllis Tawiah
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Betty Norman
- Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana; Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Fred Stephen Sarfo
- Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana; Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.
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Sakyi SA, Tawiah P, Senu E, Ampofo RO, Enimil AK, Amoani B, Anto EO, Opoku S, Effah A, Abban E, Frimpong J, Frimpong E, Bannor LO, Kwayie AA, Naturinda E, Ansah EA, Baidoo BT, Kodzo KE, Ayisi‐Boateng NK. Frailty syndrome and associated factors among patients with hypertension: A cross-sectional study in Kumasi, Ghana. Health Sci Rep 2023; 6:e1664. [PMID: 37900092 PMCID: PMC10600407 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Frailty is a condition marked by accumulation of biological deficits and dysfunctions that come with aging and it is correlated with high morbidity and mortality in patients with cardiovascular diseases, particularly hypertension. Hypertension continues to be a leading cause of cardiovascular diseases and premature death globally. However, there is dearth of literature in sub-Saharan Africa on frailty syndrome among hypertensives on medication. This study evaluated frailty syndrome and its associated factors among Ghanaian hypertensives. Methods This cross-sectional study recruited 303 patients with hypertension from the University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana. Data on sociodemographic, lifestyle and clinical factors were collected using a well-structured questionnaire. Medication adherence was measured using Adherence in Chronic Disease Scale, and frailty was assessed by Tilburg Frailty Indicator. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS Version 26.0 and GraphPad prism 8.0. p-value of < 0.05 and 95% confidence interval (CI) were considered statistically significant. Results The prevalence of frailty was 59.7%. The proportion of high, medium and low medication adherence was 23.4%, 64.4% and 12.2%, respectively. Being ≥ 70years (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 8.33, 95% CI [3.72-18.67], p < 0.0001), unmarried (aOR: 2.59, 95% CI [1.37-4.89], p = 0.0030), having confirmed hypertension complications (aOR: 3.21, 95% CI [1.36-7.53], p = 0.0080), medium (aOR: 1.99, 95% CI [1.05-3.82], p = 0.0360) and low antihypertensive drug adherence (aOR: 27.69, 95% CI [7.05-108.69], p < 0.0001) were independent predictors of increased odds of developing frailty syndrome. Conclusion Approximately 6 out of 10 Ghanaian adult patients with hypertension experience frailty syndrome. Hypertension complications, older age, being unmarried, and low antihypertensive drug adherence increased the chances of developing frailty syndrome. These should be considered in intervention programmes to prevent frailty among patients with hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel A. Sakyi
- Department of Molecular MedicineKwame Nkrumah University of Science and TechnologyKumasiGhana
| | - Phyllis Tawiah
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and DentistryKwame Nkrumah University of Science and TechnologyKumasiGhana
| | - Ebenezer Senu
- Department of Molecular MedicineKwame Nkrumah University of Science and TechnologyKumasiGhana
| | - Ransford O. Ampofo
- Department of Medical Diagnostics, Faculty of Allied Health SciencesKwame Nkrumah University of Science and TechnologyKumasiGhana
| | - Anthony K. Enimil
- Pediatric Infectious Disease Unit, Child Health DirectorateKomfo Anokye Teaching HospitalKumasiGhana
| | - Benjamin Amoani
- Department of Biomedical ScienceUniversity of Cape CoastCape CoastGhana
| | - Enoch O. Anto
- Department of Medical Diagnostics, Faculty of Allied Health SciencesKwame Nkrumah University of Science and TechnologyKumasiGhana
| | - Stephen Opoku
- Department of Molecular MedicineKwame Nkrumah University of Science and TechnologyKumasiGhana
| | - Alfred Effah
- Department of Molecular MedicineKwame Nkrumah University of Science and TechnologyKumasiGhana
- Department of Medical Diagnostics, Faculty of Allied Health SciencesKwame Nkrumah University of Science and TechnologyKumasiGhana
| | - Elizabeth Abban
- Department of Medical Diagnostics, Faculty of Allied Health SciencesKwame Nkrumah University of Science and TechnologyKumasiGhana
- Department of Medical Laboratory TechnologyGarden City University CollegeKumasiGhana
| | - Joseph Frimpong
- Department of Medical Diagnostics, Faculty of Allied Health SciencesKwame Nkrumah University of Science and TechnologyKumasiGhana
| | - Emmaunel Frimpong
- Department of Medical Diagnostics, Faculty of Allied Health SciencesKwame Nkrumah University of Science and TechnologyKumasiGhana
| | - Lydia Oppong Bannor
- Department of Medical Diagnostics, Faculty of Allied Health SciencesKwame Nkrumah University of Science and TechnologyKumasiGhana
| | - Afia A. Kwayie
- Department of Medical Diagnostics, Faculty of Allied Health SciencesKwame Nkrumah University of Science and TechnologyKumasiGhana
| | - Emmanuel Naturinda
- Department of Medical Diagnostics, Faculty of Allied Health SciencesKwame Nkrumah University of Science and TechnologyKumasiGhana
| | - Eugene A. Ansah
- Department of Medical Diagnostics, Faculty of Allied Health SciencesKwame Nkrumah University of Science and TechnologyKumasiGhana
| | - Bright T. Baidoo
- Department of Medical Diagnostics, Faculty of Allied Health SciencesKwame Nkrumah University of Science and TechnologyKumasiGhana
| | - Kini E. Kodzo
- Department of Medical Diagnostics, Faculty of Allied Health SciencesKwame Nkrumah University of Science and TechnologyKumasiGhana
| | - Nana K. Ayisi‐Boateng
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and DentistryKwame Nkrumah University of Science and TechnologyKumasiGhana
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Amponsah OKO, Courtenay A, Ayisi-Boateng NK, Abuelhana A, Opoku DA, Blay LK, Abruquah NA, Osafo AB, Danquah CB, Tawiah P, Opare-Addo MNA, Owusu-Ofori A, Buabeng KO. Assessing the impact of antimicrobial stewardship implementation at a district hospital in Ghana using a health partnership model. JAC Antimicrob Resist 2023; 5:dlad084. [PMID: 37465105 PMCID: PMC10350667 DOI: 10.1093/jacamr/dlad084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) is imperative in addressing the menace of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in health systems. Commonwealth Partnerships for Antimicrobial Stewardship uses a health partnership model to establish AMS in Commonwealth countries. The Hospital of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in partnership with Ulster University, Northern Ireland, undertook an AMS project from November 2021 to May 2022. We report on implementation of the AMS, its impact on antibiotic use and infections management at the University Hospital; Kumasi, Ghana. Methods The Global-Point Prevalence Survey (PPS) protocol was used to assess antibiotics use at the hospital at baseline, midpoint and end of the project. Feedback on each PPS was given to the hospital to inform practice, behavioural change and improve antibiotic use. Results Antibiotic use reduced from 65% at baseline to 59.7% at the end of the project. The rate of healthcare-associated infections also reduced from 17.5% at baseline to 6.5%. Use of antibiotics from the WHO Access group was 40% at baseline but increased to 50% at the endpoint. Watch antibiotics reduced from 60% to 50% from baseline. Culture and susceptibility requests increased from baseline of 111 total requests to 330 requests in the intervention period to inform antimicrobial therapy. Conclusion The model AMS instituted improved antibiotic use and quality of antimicrobial therapy within the study period. Continuous staff education and training in AMS, and use of standard tools for assessment and application of local data to inform infections management will ensure sustenance and improvement in the gains made.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aaron Courtenay
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ulster University, Coleraine Campus, North Ireland, UK
| | - Nana Kwame Ayisi-Boateng
- University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Ahmed Abuelhana
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ulster University, Coleraine Campus, North Ireland, UK
| | - Douglas Aninng Opoku
- School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Lawrence Kobina Blay
- University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Nana Akua Abruquah
- University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | | | - Phyllis Tawiah
- University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Mercy Naa Aduele Opare-Addo
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Alex Owusu-Ofori
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Kwame Ohene Buabeng
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Nakua EK, Amissah J, Tawiah P, Barnie B, Donkor P, Mock C. The prevalence and correlates of depression among older adults in greater kumasi of the ashanti region. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:763. [PMID: 37098513 PMCID: PMC10126556 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15361-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Approximately two million Ghanaians suffer from mental disorders including depression. The WHO defines it as an illness characterized by constant sadness and loss of interest in activities that a person usually enjoys doing and this condition is the leading cause of mental disorders; however, the burden of depression on the aged population is fairly unknown. A better appreciation of depression and its predictors is necessary to design appropriate policy interventions. Therefore, this study aims to assess the prevalence and correlates of depression among older people in the Greater Kumasi of the Ashanti region. METHODS A cross-sectional study design with a multi-stage sampling approach was employed to recruit and collect data from 418 older adults aged 60 years and above at the household level in four enumeration areas (EAs) within the Asokore Mampong Municipality. Households within each EAs were mapped and listed by trained resident enumerators to create a sampling frame. Data was collected electronically with Open Data Kit application over 30 days through face-to-face interaction using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). The results were summarized using descriptive and inferential statistics. A multivariable logistics regression using a forward and backward stepwise approach was employed to identify the predictors of depression in the study sample. All analyses were performed using STATA software version 16, and the significance level was maintained at a p-value < 0.05 and presented at a 95% confidence interval. RESULTS The study achieved a response rate of 97.7% from the estimated sample size of 428 respondents. The mean age was 69.9 (SD = 8.8), and the distribution was similar for both sexes (p = 0.25). The prevalence of depression in this study was 42.1% and dominated by females, older adults (> 80 years), and lower economic class respondents. The rate was 43.4% for both consumers of alcohol and smokers with a history of stroke (41.2%) and taking medication for chronic conditions (44.2%). The predictors of depression in our study were being single, low class [aOR = 1.97; 95% CI = 1.18-3.27] and having other chronic conditions [aOR = 1.86; 95% CI = 1.59-4.62], and the inability to manage ones' own affairs [aOR = 0.56; 95% CI = 0.32-0.97]. CONCLUSION The study provides data that can inform policy decisions on the care of the elderly with depression in Ghana and other similar countries, confirming the need to provide support efforts towards high-risk groups such as single people, people with chronic health conditions, and lower-income people. Additionally, the evidence provided in this study could serve as baseline data for larger and longitudinal studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel K Nakua
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - John Amissah
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.
| | - Phyllis Tawiah
- Department of Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Bernard Barnie
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Peter Donkor
- Department of Surgery, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Ayisi-Boateng NK, Opoku DA, Tawiah P, Owusu-Antwi R, Konadu E, Apenteng GT, Essuman A, Mock C, Barnie B, Donkor P, Sarfo FS. Carers’ needs assessment for patients with dementia in Ghana. Afr J Prim Health Care Fam Med 2022; 14:e1-e8. [PMID: 36073124 PMCID: PMC9453144 DOI: 10.4102/phcfm.v14i1.3595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nana K Ayisi-Boateng
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi.
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Amoah I, Lim JJ, Osei EO, Arthur M, Tawiah P, Oduro IN, Aduama-Larbi MS, Lowor ST, Rush E. Effect of Cocoa Beverage and Dark Chocolate Consumption on Blood Pressure in Those with Normal and Elevated Blood Pressure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Foods 2022; 11:foods11131962. [PMID: 35804776 PMCID: PMC9265772 DOI: 10.3390/foods11131962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Cocoa is a major dietary source of polyphenols, including flavanols, which have been associated with reduced blood pressure (BP). While earlier systematic reviews and meta-analyses have shown significant effects of cocoa consumption on systolic BP, limitations include small sample sizes and study heterogeneity. Questions regarding food matrix and dose of polyphenols, flavanols, or epicatechins remain. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the effects of ≥2 weeks of cocoa consumption as a beverage or dark chocolate in those with normal or elevated (< or ≥130 mmHg) systolic BP measured in the fasted state or over 24-h. A systematic search conducted on PubMed and Cochrane Library databases up to 26 February 2022 yielded 31 suitable articles. Independent of baseline BP, cocoa consumption for ≥2 weeks was associated with reductions in systolic and diastolic BP (p < 0.05, all). Compared with cocoa, chocolate lowered the weighted mean of resting systolic BP (−3.94 mmHg, 95% CI [−5.71, −2.18]) more than cocoa beverage (−1.54 mmHg, 95% CI [−3.08, 0.01]). When the daily dose of flavanols was ≥900 mg or of epicatechin ≥100 mg, the effect was greater. Future, adequately powered studies are required to determine the optimal dose for a clinically significant effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac Amoah
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi 00233, Ghana; (E.O.O.); (M.A.)
- Correspondence: or (I.A.); (J.J.L.); Tel.: +233-24-918-3185 (I.A.); +64-21-029-95729 (J.J.L.)
| | - Jia Jiet Lim
- Human Nutrition Unit, School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1024, New Zealand
- Correspondence: or (I.A.); (J.J.L.); Tel.: +233-24-918-3185 (I.A.); +64-21-029-95729 (J.J.L.)
| | - Emmanuel Ofori Osei
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi 00233, Ghana; (E.O.O.); (M.A.)
| | - Michael Arthur
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi 00233, Ghana; (E.O.O.); (M.A.)
| | - Phyllis Tawiah
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Dentistry, College of Health Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi 00233, Ghana;
| | - Ibok Nsa Oduro
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi 00233, Ghana;
| | | | - Samuel Tetteh Lowor
- Cocoa Research Institute of Ghana, Akim-Tafo P.O. Box 8, Ghana; (M.S.A.-L.); (S.T.L.)
| | - Elaine Rush
- Faculty of Health and Environmental Studies, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland 1142, New Zealand;
- Riddet Centre of Research Excellence, Palmerston North 0632, New Zealand
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Ayisi-Boateng NK, Sarfo FS, Opoku DA, Nakua EK, Konadu E, Tawiah P, Owusu-Antwi R, Essuman A, Barnie B, Mock C, Donkor P. Educational intervention to enhance the knowledge of Ghanaian health workers on Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Afr J Prim Health Care Fam Med 2022; 14:e1-e7. [PMID: 35532111 PMCID: PMC9082276 DOI: 10.4102/phcfm.v14i1.3448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRDs) pose a major public health challenge in older adults. In sub-Saharan Africa, the burden of ADRD is projected to escalate amidst ill-equipped healthcare workers (HCWs). Aim This study aimed to assess ADRD knowledge amongst Ghanaian HCWs and improve gaps identified through a workshop. Setting Study was conducted among HCWs attending a workshop in Kumasi, Ghana. Methods On 18 August 2021, a workshop on ADRD was organised in Kumasi, Ghana, which was attended by 49 HCWs comprising doctors, nurses, pharmacists, social workers and nutritionists. On arrival, they answered 30 pre-test questions using the Alzheimer’s Disease Knowledge Scale (ADKS). A post-test using the same questionnaire was conducted after participants had been exposed to a 4-h in-person educational content on ADRD delivered by facilitators from family medicine, neurology, geriatrics, psychiatry and public health. Results The mean age of participants was 34.6 (± 6.82), mean years of practice was 7.7 (± 5.6) and 38.8% (n = 19) were nurses. The mean score of participants’ overall knowledge was 19.8 (± 4.3) at pre-test and 23.2 (± 4.0) at post-test. Participants’ pre-test and post-test scores improved in all ADKS domains. Factors associated with participants’ knowledge at baseline were profession, professional rank and the highest level of education attained. After adjusting for age and sex, participant’s rank, being a specialist (adjusted β = 14.44; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 7.03, 21.85; p < 0.001) was an independent predictor of knowledge on Alzheimer’s disease. Conclusion Existing knowledge gaps in ADRD could be improved via continuous medical education interventions of HCWs to prepare healthcare systems in Africa for the predicted ADRD epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nana K Ayisi-Boateng
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi.
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Ayisi-Boateng NK, Singh A, Abu-Sakyi J, Tawiah P, Darkwa I, Wusu-Ansah OK. Fighting the COVID-19 pandemic in Ghana: a report from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi. Pan Afr Med J 2021; 37:43. [PMID: 33552371 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.supp.2020.37.43.25749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has stretched the resources of health facilities but there is a lack of context-specific reports across Africa. Since February, 2020, the university hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), a district-level institution, has been at the forefront in contributing to efforts in Ghana to fight the global pandemic. As of 16th August, 2020, 1755 individual samples have been taken at the hospital for COVID-19 out of which 629 (35.8%) tested positive, 414 (65.9%) recoveries and 6 (0.95%) deaths. The hospital's out-patient attendance has reduced by almost 50% with attendant loss of revenue. Here in, we present a report on our activities, highlight lessons and recommendations that other health facilities can glean from.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nana Kwame Ayisi-Boateng
- Department of Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.,University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Arti Singh
- University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.,School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Joseph Abu-Sakyi
- University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Phyllis Tawiah
- Department of Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.,University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Ivy Darkwa
- University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Osei Kwaku Wusu-Ansah
- University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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10
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Ayisi-Boateng NK, Owusu M, Tawiah P, Ampah BA, Sylverken AA, Wusu-Ansah OK, Sarfo FS, Phillips RO. Profile and outcomes of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 at a tertiary institution hospital in Ghana. Ghana Med J 2020; 54:39-45. [PMID: 33976440 PMCID: PMC8087356 DOI: 10.4314/gmj.v54i4s.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In high-income countries, mortality related to hospitalized patients with the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is approximately 4-5%. However, data on COVID-19 admissions from sub-Saharan Africa are scanty. OBJECTIVE To describe the clinical profile and determinants of outcomes of patients with confirmed COVID-19 admitted at a hospital in Ghana. METHODS A prospective study involving 25 patients with real time polymerase chain reaction confirmed COVID-19 admitted to the treatment centre of the University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana from 1st June to 27th July, 2020. They were managed and followed up for outcomes. Data were analysed descriptively, and predictors of mortality assessed using a multivariate logistic regression modelling. RESULTS The mean age of the patients was 59.3 ± 20.6 years, and 14 (56%) were males. The main symptoms at presentation were breathlessness (68%) followed by fever (56%). The cases were categorized as mild (6), moderate (6), severe (10) and critical (3). Hypertension was the commonest comorbidity present in 72% of patients. Medications used in patient management included dexamethasone (68%), azithromycin (96%), and hydroxychloroquine (4%). Five of 25 cases died (Case fatality ratio 20%). Increasing age and high systolic blood pressure were associated with mortality. CONCLUSION Case fatality in this sample of hospitalized COVID-19 patients was high. Thorough clinical assessment, severity stratification, aggressive management of underlying co-morbidities and standardized protocols incountry might improve outcomes. FUNDING None declared.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nana K Ayisi-Boateng
- Department of Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Michael Owusu
- Department of Medical Diagnostics, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research into Tropical Medicine, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Phyllis Tawiah
- Department of Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Brenda A Ampah
- University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Augustina A Sylverken
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research into Tropical Medicine, Kumasi, Ghana
- Departement of Theoretical and Applied Biology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Osei K Wusu-Ansah
- University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Fred S Sarfo
- Department of Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Richard O Phillips
- Department of Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research into Tropical Medicine, Kumasi, Ghana
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11
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Ayisi-Boateng NK, Singh A, Abu-Sakyi J, Tawiah P, Darkwa I, Wusu-Ansah OK. Fighting the COVID-19 pandemic in Ghana: a report from the University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi. Pan Afr Med J 2020. [PMID: 33552371 PMCID: PMC7846255 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.supp.2020.37.1.25749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has stretched the resources of health facilities but there is a lack of context-specific reports across Africa. Since February, 2020, the university hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), a district-level institution, has been at the forefront in contributing to efforts in Ghana to fight the global pandemic. As of 16th August, 2020, 1755 individual samples have been taken at the hospital for COVID-19 out of which 629 (35.8%) tested positive, 414 (65.9%) recoveries and 6 (0.95%) deaths. The hospital's out-patient attendance has reduced by almost 50% with attendant loss of revenue. Here in, we present a report on our activities, highlight lessons and recommendations that other health facilities can glean from.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nana Kwame Ayisi-Boateng
- Department of Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- Corresponding author: Nana Kwame Ayisi-Boateng, Department of Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.
| | - Arti Singh
- University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Joseph Abu-Sakyi
- University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Phyllis Tawiah
- Department of Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Ivy Darkwa
- University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Osei Kwaku Wusu-Ansah
- University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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12
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Asnis D, Haralambou G, Tawiah P. Re: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus necrotizing pneumonia arising from an infected episiotomy site. Obstet Gynecol 2007; 110:188. [PMID: 17601920 DOI: 10.1097/01.aog.0000269873.84220.9e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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