2023 Ghana STEPS survey reveals 75% of adults lack fruit intake

The 2023 Ghana STEPS survey has uncovered a significant public health challenge, revealing that three out of four Ghanaian adults do not consume the recommended five servings of fruits and vegetables daily. This finding, representing 75% of the adult population, highlights a widespread nutritional deficit that health experts warn is contributing to a rise in non-communicable diseases across the country. The survey underscores a critical gap between current dietary habits and the nutritional standards required for long-term health.

Beyond dietary habits, the survey found that nearly 21% of Ghanaian adults are either living with elevated blood pressure or are currently on medication for the condition. Dr. Wallace Odiko-Ollennu of the Ghana Health Service (GHS) noted that these statistics reflect a worrying trend of lifestyle-related health issues. He stressed that the low intake of fresh produce, combined with an increasing reliance on processed foods, is a primary driver of the national health burden.

To combat these trends, health officials are advocating for immediate dietary adjustments, including a significant reduction in salt intake and a shift toward plant-based proteins. Dr. Odiko-Ollennu suggested that Ghanaians should consider alternatives like beans instead of meat and emphasized the importance of regular physical activity, particularly among women. In response to these findings, the Meatless Monday initiative has been promoted as a practical way for citizens to reduce their risk of chronic disease by forgoing meat once a week.

The Ghana Health Service also underscored the importance of mental well-being and community-level support in fostering healthier lifestyles. As the country grapples with the rising prevalence of chronic conditions, health authorities maintain that small, consistent changes in daily nutrition and exercise are essential to improving the long-term health outcomes of the population. The report serves as a call to action for both policymakers and individuals to prioritize nutritional health to reduce the strain on the national healthcare system.