Physical activity, lifestyle, sociocultural factors and prevalence of excess weight gain among postmenopausal women: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Most women experienced postmenopausal symptoms during the menopause transition, and they are a common reason for seeking medical attention and lifestyle modification during this phase of life. OBJECTIVE: This study assessed the physical activity, lifestyle, and sociocultural levels-associated prevalence of excess weight (overweight and obesity) among postmenopausal women (PW) in Bono-East (Techiman) region, Ghana. DESIGN: This is cross-sectional study. METHOD: This was a cross-sectional study conducted at Bono-East regional capital, Techiman in Ghana over 5 months. Self-administered questionnaires were used to obtain sociodemographic data, physical activity, lifestyle, and sociocultural associated prevalence of excess weight. Anthropometric indices including ((body mass index (BMI), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR)) were assessed. RESULTS: A total of 393 postmenopausal women with a mean age of 60.09 ± 6.24 years participated in the study. When reporting prevalence, obesity, and overweight were distinguished. Using the anthropometric parameters (BMI, WHtR, and WHR) as measured for being overweight, the prevalent rates were 35.7%, 21.7%, and 9.0% respectively. Also, when using obesity, the prevalent rate was 37.8%, 70.1%, and 82.0% using BMI, WHtR, and WHR, respectively. Over 55 (55.2%) of the study participants engaged in moderate physical activities, 23.1% were low and 21.7% with high physical activities. Housewives and unemployed participants are shown to have a higher risk of gaining weight (obese) especially when assessed with WHR and WHtR. Most participants responded that cultural beliefs prevent them from losing weight. Most participants had a poor attitude toward their eating habits. CONCLUSION: According to the findings, postmenopausal Ghanaian women showed a high level of obesity and a moderate level of being overweight. The cultural perception of beauty influences Ghanaian postmenopausal women's physical activity level and dietary habits.

Prevalence of excess weight and associated socio-demographic factors among postmenopausal women: A population-based study in Ghana.

BACKGROUND: Excess weight (obesity and overweight) is a pervasive condition that is considered a global epidemic and a threat to public health. Furthermore, numerous changes in fat deposits occur with the advent of menopause, leading to a change in the distribution of body fat. Knowledge of sociodemographic factors and prevalence can inform the effective management of these women. AIM: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of excess weight among postmenopausal women in Ghana's Bono East (Techiman) region. SETTING: This study was conducted in Bono East regional capital, Techiman, Ghana. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study conducted over 5 months at Bono East regional capital, Techiman in Ghana. Anthropometric parameters such as body mass index (BMI), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) were obtained using physical measurements while socio-demographic data were gathered using questionnaires. Data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS 25. RESULTS: The mean age of the 378 women who participated in the study was 60.09 ± 6.24 years. Body mass index, WHtR and WHR indicated excess weight of 73.2%, 91.8% and 91.0%, respectively. Education and ethnicity were predictors of excess weight (WHR). Women of the Ga tribe with high school education have 4.7- and 8.6-times increased odds of having excess weight. CONCLUSIONS: There are higher prevalence rates of excess weight (obesity and overweight) among postmenopausal women using BMI, WHtR and WHR. Education and ethnicity are predictors of excess weight.Contribution: The study's findings can be used to develop interventions that focus on addressing excess weight in postmenopausal women within the Ghanaian context.

An exploratory study on excess weight gain: Experiences of Postmenopausal Women in Ghana.

INTRODUCTION: Excess weight gain is a problem with a significant impact on health and quality of life as well as the consequent economic burden on human populations. While society advocates preference for excess weight gain, limited evidence exists concerning postmenopausal women's experiences in Ghana. AIM: The current study explored the experiences regarding excess weight (overweight and obesity) gain among Ghanaian postmenopausal women in Bono East (Techiman) region. METHODS: This is a qualitative exploratory descriptive study where anthropometric measurements [body mass index (BMI), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR)] were determined and participants who were identified with excess weight (obesity and overweight) were recruited to participate in a focus group discussion (FGD). Four focus group discussions were held and 24 postmenopausal women (>45 years) in Techiman took part. Discussions were audio-recorded and transcribed for thematic analysis. RESULTS: From the qualitative analysis of the FGD, three major themes emerged from the study namely, (i) perception of body weight, (ii) measures to reduce body weight, and (iii) support to adhere to the weight management program. Sub-themes revealed that weight gained was viewed as the presence of diseases and admired by society as a culturally accepted body image. Diet-related changes, a combination of diet modification and physical activity, and weight management supplements emerged as measures to reduce excess weight. Support to adhere to the weight program included health education, access, affordable exercise facilities, and social support. CONCLUSIONS: Sociocultural norms influence the image perception and acceptance of weight gain among postmenopausal women in Ghana, but there is an acknowledgment of the perceived negative health implications of such excess weight. Measures for weight reduction and support to adhere to the weight reduction programme require attention in Ghana.