Kasi Report - Kasi Health and Wellness Index (FiT Score) Ghana

Overview

The Kasi Health and Wellness Index (FiT Score) for Ghana, conducted in September 2017, provides a comprehensive snapshot of non-communicable disease (NCD)-related risk factors in urban African cities. The semi-annual report focuses on Ghanaians' opinions about their health, lifestyle habits (both healthy and unhealthy), and medical care. The primary goal is to inform the development and implementation of tailored health policies for maximum impact and effectiveness.

Key Takeaways:

- Ghanaians living in Accra scored the highest FiT score at 64 among the seven African cities covered in the index.

- Ghanaians generally feel good about their health, with a steadily increasing life expectancy. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in medical care and general health perceptions.

- Unhealthy habits such as tobacco use and alcohol consumption are more prevalent among young adults. Only 10% of respondents meet the recommended daily servings of fruits and vegetables.

- The report highlights the importance of adopting a people-centered approach to healthcare, considering the rise of urbanization and the need for a holistic perspective on health.

Methodology

The Kasi Health & Wellness Index draws insights from a survey conducted between February 17th and 27th, 2017. The sample includes 3,369 urban dwellers aged 18 to 65 in Africa, with a focus on balancing demographics to reflect the adult, urban, and working population in the surveyed countries. The data was cleaned to ensure accuracy, and the survey has a credibility interval of +/- 4.0% at a 95% confidence level.

Conclusion

While Ghanaians exhibit positive health sentiments, the report underscores the importance of enhancing health-seeking behaviors and addressing unhealthy lifestyle habits, especially among the relatively young population. The FiT score serves as a valuable tool to guide public health policies and interventions tailored to the unique health landscape of urban African cities, fostering a healthier and more resilient population. The findings emphasize the need for a holistic and people-centered approach to healthcare in the context of Africa's evolving health challenges.