Abstract:
Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) have gradually become common due to
a cumulative cluster of factors such as poor dietary practices and a sedentary
lifestyle. Poor dietary quality (high salt intake, high saturated and trans-fatty
acid intake, and low fruit and vegetable consumption) and insufficient physical
activity are key risk factors for NCD development. Therefore, the study
investigated dietary practices and associated NCDs among adolescents in
Bekwai Municipal. The study was a descriptive cross-sectional survey that
employed a quantitative method. Simple random sampling and stratified
sampling techniques were used to select students from four schools in the
municipality. A total of 1,714 students participated in the study. Analysis was
done using frequency, mean scores, Chi-square, Mann–Whitney test, and logic
regression. Most (65%) of the adolescents had inadequate knowledge about
NCDs. Most of the adolescents had poor dietary practices, and this was higher
among girls than boys. Boys and girls differed in the intake of drinks, meat, fish,
bread, dairy products, and fats. There was no association between the dietary
practices of adolescents and the development of NCDs. However, those who
consumed many fruits were 42% less likely to develop NCD. Being a female,
traditionalist, and Muslim had increasing odd of developing NCDs. Females are
at greater risk of being obese and overweight (X2=24.28, p-value=0.001). Thus,
encouraging the consumption of fruits and vegetables and reducing the intake
of unhealthy foods and beverages can help in reducing NCD risk among these
adolescents.
