Self-perception of health and physical activity levels among the youth and adults before and amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

Journal: Frontiers in public health

Volume: 12

Issue: 

Year of Publication: 2024

Affiliated Institutions:  Department of Physical Education and Sport Studies, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana. Department of Educational Studies and Leadership, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana. Regional Institute for Population Studies, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana. Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria. Department of Psychology, Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, Nigeria. Department of Kinesiology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, United States. Sonde Health, Boston, MA, United States.

Abstract summary 

Emerging research indicates that the COVID-19 pandemic and associated restrictions led to decreased physical activity levels and poorer health globally. However, most studies on this topic have focused on advanced countries, leaving a gap in understanding the impact in countries like Ghana. This study aimed to fill this gap by assessing self-perceived health status and physical activity levels among youth and adults in Ghana before, during, and after the COVID-19 restrictions. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for informing public health interventions and policies to promote well-being during and beyond the pandemic.A cross-sectional survey using online data collection methods was conducted, involving 937 participants. Data included demographic information, and International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF). Analysis was done using SPSS version 25, with descriptive statistics and multinomial regression.Most participants (89.6%) reported good health. Male participants were significantly more likely to engage in moderate (1.78 times) and high (3.17 times) physical activity during the COVID-19 period compared to females.This study highlights gender disparities in physical activity levels during the pandemic in Ghana. Addressing these disparities and promoting healthier lifestyles, especially during crises, is crucial for general and mental health. Further research should explore socio-demographic factors' role in health behaviors during pandemics.

Authors & Co-authors:  Nyawornota Vida Korleki VK Adamba Clement C Tay Doris Akosua DA Nyanyofio Oscar C OC Muomah Rosemary C RC Chukwuorji JohnBosco C JC Nwonyi Sampson K SK Malete Leapetswe L Joachim Dale D Ocansey Reginald T RT

Study Outcome 

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Statistics
Citations :  Ly NKK, Mohamud L, Villeneuve PJ, Matheson K, Anisman H, Id MJC. Protective effects of physical activity on mental health outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic. PLoS One. (2022) 1–18.
Authors :  10
Identifiers
Doi : 1298378
SSN : 2296-2565
Study Population
Male
Mesh Terms
Humans
Other Terms
COVID-19;Ghana;gender;health status;physical activity;public health
Study Design
Cross Sectional Study,Descriptive Study
Study Approach
Country of Study
Ghana
Publication Country
Switzerland