Non-communicable disease diet risk knowledge: a population-based study from three urban poor communities from Accra, Ghana

Sandra Boatemaa, University of Ghana

To measure the knowledge level of adults about the diet risk factors for non-communicable disease (NCD) and to test whether the knowledge level differed by NCD status of individuals. The CVD knowledge scale of four items on intake of fatty foods, red meat, salt and fruits and vegetables were administered to 781 persons in 2013. All the items were based on “Agree,” “Disagree” or “Don’t Know” statements. The results of individuals with NCDs was compared with individuals without NCDs. Statistical analyses were applied to the data. The rates of correct responses varied between 29.3% and 93.0%. The mean score was 2.4.±1.15 (range 0 to 4). Thus NCD diet risk knowledge was low. There was no significant difference in the knowledge level of individuals with NCD history and those without NCDs. The low level of knowledge is risky for prevention of disease among individuals without NCDs and for prevention of complications among persons living with NCDs.