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Selected Papers from the 3rd Ellisras Longitudinal Study and Other...
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Selected Papers from the 3rd Ellisras Longitudinal Study and Other Non-communicable Diseases Studies International Conference

A special issue of Children (ISSN 2227-9067). This special issue belongs to the section "Global and Public Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 June 2023) | Viewed by 19049

Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Kotsedi Daniel Monyeki

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Physiology and Environmental Health, University of Limpopo, Sovenga 0727, South Africa
Interests: smoking; longitudinal studies; physical activity; alcohol; physical finess; diabetic; dietary intake; hypertension; metabolic syndrome; anthropometric measurements; socio-economic status; body composition; none communicable diseases
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

The Ellisras Longitudinal Study and other Non-Communicable Disease Studies International Conference organizing committee takes pleasure in inviting you to the 3rd International Conference on non-communicable diseases on 22–24 November 2022 at the University of Limpopo, Lephalale (Ellisras), Bangalong Village/School, South Africa. The major subthemes of the conference include: 1) lifestyle risk factors for non-communicable disease—tobacco and alcohol consumption, nutrition and dietary intake, and physical activity; 2) biological risk factors for non-communicable diseases—hypertension, genetics, lipids profile, dysglycemia; 3) growth, maturation, and aging; 4) child health and health education; 5) impact of COVID-19 on CVDs and other NCDs; and 6) poverty, NCDs/CVDs, and COVID-19 linkages. The 3rd ELSONCDIC will provide a unique, inclusive platform for discussion by ordinary members of the Ellisras community, expert scholars, students, and experienced professionals from all over the world, offering a truly special international networking experience,—a comprehensive and interactive program in which participants can cultivate their cross-cultural and communication skills while shining a light on different topics related to poverty, COVID-19, and NCDs, to allow the program to have a long-lasting effect on the conference participants as well as the Ellisras/Lephalale communities, as the knowledge gained will be taken back to our respective communities and families.

Keynote/preliminary speakers for the conference include 1) Prof. André Pascal Kengne—Non-Communicable Diseases Research Unit South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town (Medical practitioner and Cardiologist); 2) Prof. Shisana Baloyi, Academic Head of Obstetrics and Gynaecology from Health Sciences Department, University of the Free State (Medical practitioner and Gynecologist); 3) Prof. dr. Tebogo Mothiba, Executive Dean, Faculty of Health Science, University of Limpopo, South Africa; 4) Prof. Muzi Maseko, School of Physiology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; 5) Prof. Lloyd Leach  Department of Sport, Recréation and Exersice Science, University of the Western Cape; and 6) Prof. Benedicta Ngwenchi Nkeh-Chungag Physiology, Walter Sisulu University, Umtata; 6) Prof. Han Kemper, Emeritus Professor, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; 7) Dr. Geofrey Musinguzi, Department of Primary and Interdisciplinary Care, University of Antwerp, Belgium and Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Makerere University, Uganda. Dr Johanna Mathupa Mogane (Medical Practitioner,  George  Mokhari Hospital, Pretoria).

Papers presented at the 3rd Ellisras Longitudinal Study and other Non-Communicable Diseases Studies International Conference will undergo vigorous peer review for publication consideration in the Children (MDPI) journal. Delegates will be required to submit papers of between 4000 and 5000 words. The paper layout should follow the guidelines and reference style of the Children (MDPI) journal. Full-length articles should be submitted on or before 30 January 2023. Please note only papers that fit the scope of the Children journal will be considered for publication.

Delegates are requested to register and submit their abstract online on the conference website link: https://www.ul.ac.za/elsconf2022/ on or before the 15 June 2022.

Prof. Dr. Kotsedi Daniel Monyeki
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Children is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • non-communicable diseases
  • child health
  • lifestyle factors
  • tobacco and alcohol consumption
  • cardiovascular diseases
  • growth
  • genetics
  • maturation
  • physical activity
  • lipids
  • poverty, NCDs/CVDs, and COVID-19

Published Papers (11 papers)

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Research

10 pages, 717 KiB  
Article
Assessment of the Performance of Obesity Measures in the Screening of Hypertension in a South African Adolescent Population
by Godwill Azeh Engwa, Paul Chungag Anye, Nandu Goswami and Benedicta Ngwenchi Nkeh-Chungag
Children 2023, 10(9), 1520; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10091520 - 07 Sep 2023
Viewed by 738
Abstract
Obesity is known to be one of the most significant risk factors for essential hypertension in childhood. However, whether obesity cut-offs may predict hypertension screening in adolescents remains controversial. This study investigated the performance of obesity cut-off values for the screening of hypertension [...] Read more.
Obesity is known to be one of the most significant risk factors for essential hypertension in childhood. However, whether obesity cut-offs may predict hypertension screening in adolescents remains controversial. This study investigated the performance of obesity cut-off values for the screening of hypertension in a South African adolescent population. In this cross-sectional study, 1144 adolescents aged between 11 and 17 years were recruited from the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Anthropometric and blood pressure (BP) parameters including diastolic blood pressure (DBP), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and heart rate (HR) were measured. Assessment of the sensitivity and specific of obesity cut-off values in predicting hypertension was performed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Obesity was positively associated (p < 0.01) with hypertension. Obese individuals, based on the predicted obesity using BMI percentile cut-off (pBMI85.2%), were more likely to develop hypertension (odds ratio: 2.070; p < 0.001) than their counterparts based on the observed obesity cut-off (pBMI95%) (Odd ratio: 1.748 p = 0.004). The area under the curve (AUC) of BMI percentile and WHtR for screening SBP percentile, and DBP percentile and HR as per ROC analysis, was low (<0.65). Equally, the sensitivity and specificity were low (<0.6) for all BP measures (SBP, DBP, and HR). Furthermore, the cut-off values for blood pressure measures, as established by ROC analysis using anthropometric measures, were far below the recommended cut-off values for hypertension screening. The obesity cut-offs for BMI percentile and WHtR established in this populations showed poor performance in diagnosing hypertension even though they were strong predictors of hypertension. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the 3rd Ellisras Longitudinal Study and Other Non-communicable Diseases Studies International Conference)
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11 pages, 622 KiB  
Article
A Longitudinal Investigation on the Effects of Sodium and Potassium Intake on the Development of Hypertension and Abdominal Obesity from Childhood to Young Adulthood amongst Ellisras Rural Population, South Africa
by Thato Tshepo Raphadu, Peter Modupi Mphekgwana, Moloko Matshipi and Kotsedi Daniel Monyeki
Children 2023, 10(8), 1330; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10081330 - 01 Aug 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1563
Abstract
Background: Hypertension (HT) and obesity have both been on the rise in children. Each is associated with an increase in cardiovascular disease risk, and both track into adulthood. Objectives: This study aimed to identify the association of sodium intake (Na), potassium (K) intake, [...] Read more.
Background: Hypertension (HT) and obesity have both been on the rise in children. Each is associated with an increase in cardiovascular disease risk, and both track into adulthood. Objectives: This study aimed to identify the association of sodium intake (Na), potassium (K) intake, and sodium-to-potassium (Na/K) ratio with the development of HT and abdominal obesity amongst the Ellisras rural population over time. Methods: In this longitudinal study, data on dietary intake of Na and K were collected using a 24 h recall questionnaire from a total of 325 participants tracked from 1999 (5–12 years), 2001 (7–14 years), and 2015 (18–30 years). The averages of Na and K intake were analysed using local food tables and the South African Food Composition Database System (SAFOODS). In addition, blood pressure (BP) and anthropometric measurements (waist circumference (WC) and height) were also examined. Parametric (independent t-test) and Chi-square/Fishers exact tests were conducted to determine the difference between the years for numerical data and categorical variables. A generalised estimating equation (GEE) was used to assess the association of Na intake, K intake and their ratio on BP, WC, and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR). Results: Our results indicate a significant positive association between K intake and WHtR, and even though the model was adjusted for age and sex, there was still an association with WHtR. The Na/K ratio was associated with both BP measurements and abdominal obesity, respectively. Furthermore, Na/K was shown to be associated with an increased risk of developing HT and abdominal obesity. Conclusions: In our study, we observed that an increase in the Na/K ratio is a predictor of HT and abdominal obesity over time compared to Na and K alone. However, more studies are required to further prove this. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the 3rd Ellisras Longitudinal Study and Other Non-communicable Diseases Studies International Conference)
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17 pages, 356 KiB  
Article
Child Nutrition Outcomes and Maternal Nutrition-Related Knowledge in Rural Localities of Mbombela, South Africa
by Lucy Nomsa Masilela and Perpetua Modjadji
Children 2023, 10(8), 1294; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10081294 - 27 Jul 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1584
Abstract
Poor nutrition outcomes among children have become one of the major public health concerns in South Africa, attributed to poor feeding practices and maternal nutrition-related knowledge with conflicting data. In view of this, a cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the association of [...] Read more.
Poor nutrition outcomes among children have become one of the major public health concerns in South Africa, attributed to poor feeding practices and maternal nutrition-related knowledge with conflicting data. In view of this, a cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the association of nutrition outcomes of children aged under two years with feeding practices and maternal nutrition-related knowledge in Mbombela, South Africa. Mothers’ nutrition-related knowledge was estimated using an adapted structured questionnaire on colostrum, continued breastfeeding, diarrhea prevention and treatment using oral rehydration solution, immunization, and family planning, and scored as excellent (80–100), good (60–79), average (40–59), and fair (0–39). This was along with questions on socio-demographic factors and obstetric history, as well as anthropometric measurements. Child nutrition outcomes were estimated by WHO classification using z-scores for stunting (length-for-age (LAZ)), underweight (weight-for-age (WAZ)), and thinness (body mass index-for-age (BAZ)). Using STATA 17, 400 pairs of children (8 ± 6 months) and their mothers (29 ± 6 years) participated in the study and were living in a poor socio-economic status environment. Half of children were stunted (50%) and over half (54%) were obese, while mothers were underweight (39%) and overweight (34%). In addition to one third of mothers reporting obstetric complications, two thirds, initiated breastfeeding within one hour of delivery, 30% exclusively breastfed, 48% introduced early complementary feeding, and 70% practiced mixed feeding. Twenty-eight percent (28%) of mothers had fair nutrition-related knowledge, while 66% had average knowledge, 6% good knowledge, and none of the mothers had excellent knowledge. A chi-square test showed that mothers’ nutrition-related knowledge was significantly associated with child stunting. The final hierarchical logistic regression showed significant associations of stunting with mothers’ nutrition-related knowledge (average: AOR = 1.92, 95%CI: 1.12–3.29), child’s age (6–11 months: AOR = 2.63, 95%CI: 1.53–4.53 and 12–23 months: AOR = 3.19, 95%CI: 1.41–7.25), and education (completing Grade 12: AOR = 0.36, 95%CI: 0.15–0.86). Contextual and intensified interventions on continued education for mothers to gain accurate information on nutrition-related knowledge and feeding practices could ultimately enhance child nutrition outcomes in poorer settings. Efforts should therefore be made to ensure that nutrition knowledge is appropriately provided based on the phases of child growth from 0 to 2 years, even beyond infancy into school age. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the 3rd Ellisras Longitudinal Study and Other Non-communicable Diseases Studies International Conference)
15 pages, 1330 KiB  
Article
Association of Stunting with Socio-Demographic Factors and Feeding Practices among Children under Two Years in Informal Settlements in Gauteng, South Africa
by Zandile Kubeka and Perpetua Modjadji
Children 2023, 10(8), 1280; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10081280 - 25 Jul 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1300
Abstract
Despite improvements in childhood undernutrition through integrated nutritional programs in South Africa, stunting among children remains persistent, and is attributed to poor socio-demographic status. This context has been implicated in disrupting mothers’ decisions regarding effective infant feeding, ultimately meaning that children’s nutritional demands [...] Read more.
Despite improvements in childhood undernutrition through integrated nutritional programs in South Africa, stunting among children remains persistent, and is attributed to poor socio-demographic status. This context has been implicated in disrupting mothers’ decisions regarding effective infant feeding, ultimately meaning that children’s nutritional demands remain unmet. In view of this, we conducted a cross-sectional study to determine the association between socio-demographic factors and infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices and stunting among children under two years receiving primary health care in informal settlements in Gauteng, South Africa. A validated questionnaire was used to assess mothers’ socio-demographic status and feeding practices using WHO core indicators. Stunting was defined as length-for age z-scores (LAZ) below −2 standard deviation, computed using WHO Anthro software version 3.2.2.1 using age, sex, and anthropometric measurements of children. Univariate and multivariate analyses were stratified by stunting to determine the relationship with socio-demographic, infant, and IYCF factors using STATA 17. The prevalence of stunting was 16% among surveyed children under two years (with a mean age of 8 ± 5 months) living in poor socio-demographic households. Poor feeding practices were characterized by delayed initiation of breastfeeding (58%), sub-optimal exclusive breastfeeding (29%), discontinued breastfeeding (44%), early introduction of solid foods (41%), and low dietary diversity (97%). Significant differences in terms of child’s age, monthly household income, and ever being breastfed were observed (Chi square test and univariate analysis). After controlling for potential confounders, stunting was significantly associated with child’s age [12–23 months: AOR = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.16–0.76], and monthly household income [ZAR 3000–ZAR 5000: AOR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.26–0.86]. Despite the few aforementioned socio-demographic and IYCF factors associated with stunting, this study reiterates stunting as the commonest poor nutritional status indicator among children under two years, suggesting the presence of chronic undernutrition in these poverty-stricken informal settlements. A multisectoral approach to address stunting should be context-specific and incorporate tailor-made interventions to promote optimal infant-feeding practices. Conducting future nutrient assessments focusing on children is imperative. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the 3rd Ellisras Longitudinal Study and Other Non-communicable Diseases Studies International Conference)
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9 pages, 2591 KiB  
Article
Investigation of the Seasonal Variation in Fat Patterning of Ellisras Rural Children and Adolescents, in the Limpopo Province, South Africa
by Lusani Mulaudzi, Thandiwe N. Mkhatshwa, Mankopodi M. Makhubedu, Moloko Matshipi, Sogolo L. Lebelo and Kotsedi D. Monyeki
Children 2023, 10(7), 1113; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10071113 - 27 Jun 2023
Viewed by 841
Abstract
An increase in childhood obesity has become a global concern since childhood obesity often leads to adulthood obesity. This study aimed to investigate whether there is seasonal variation in fat patterning, and whether fat patterning is associated with seasons among the Ellisras population [...] Read more.
An increase in childhood obesity has become a global concern since childhood obesity often leads to adulthood obesity. This study aimed to investigate whether there is seasonal variation in fat patterning, and whether fat patterning is associated with seasons among the Ellisras population aged 5–15 years. A total of 1986 children and adolescents (1034 boys and 952 girls) aged 5–15 enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Skinfold measurements were obtained using standard procedures. Obesity prevalence was determined using frequency analysis. The correlation between obesity and two seasons was tested using multinomial regression analysis. The results showed that girls aged 11–15 years had significantly (p ≤ 0.03) larger median fat variables (triceps, biceps, and suprailiac) in spring compared to autumn. The prevalence of obesity ranged from 3–11% with boys being more obese (4–11%) than girls (3–7%) aged 5–15. Regression analysis showed a negative significant (p ≤ 0.001) correlation between autumn and obesity by the subscapular/(subscapular+triceps) (SST) ratio, both unadjusted −2.991 (95%CI −3.233:−2.803) and adjusted −2.897 (95% CI −4.331:−1.629). The findings of the study showed that there was seasonal variation in fat patterning among boys and girls in the Ellisras population and that fat patterning is associated with seasons. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the 3rd Ellisras Longitudinal Study and Other Non-communicable Diseases Studies International Conference)
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10 pages, 215 KiB  
Article
Support Needs of Parents of Adolescents Abusing Substances in Selected Hospitals in Limpopo Province
by Lina Sebolaisi Hlahla, Charity Ngoatle and Tebogo Maria Mothiba
Children 2023, 10(3), 552; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10030552 - 15 Mar 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 983
Abstract
Parents with adolescents who abuse substances need support. They have high stress levels and low quality of life compared to other parents. This is because they have unmet support needs, do not know what to do to help their adolescents, and are distressed. [...] Read more.
Parents with adolescents who abuse substances need support. They have high stress levels and low quality of life compared to other parents. This is because they have unmet support needs, do not know what to do to help their adolescents, and are distressed. Most studies focus on the support needs of adolescents. Less is known about the specific support needs of their parents. This study explores the support needs of parents of adolescents abusing substances and being treated in five hospitals in Limpopo Province. A qualitative research approach was applied with an explorative, descriptive, and contextual design using semi-structured interviews to understand parents’ views. Data saturation was reached at the 14th parent. Data were analyzed using the Tesch method. The parents mainly wanted informational and emotional support. The study identified specific parent-related support needs and adolescent-related support needs. This study is the first to explore the support needs of parents of adolescents abusing substances in a South African rural context. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the 3rd Ellisras Longitudinal Study and Other Non-communicable Diseases Studies International Conference)
10 pages, 251 KiB  
Article
Attitudes of Caregivers of Children under Five Years Regarding Growth Monitoring and Promotion in Polokwane, Limpopo Province
by Mabitsela Hezekiel Mphasha, Matjie Rapetsoa, Nhaviso Mathebula, Kamogelo Makua and Sanele Mazibuko
Children 2023, 10(1), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10010056 - 27 Dec 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2087
Abstract
Growth monitoring and promotion (GMP) is critical in tracking child growth to address widespread malnutrition and health status. Attitudes influence behaviour change, including attendance of GMP, and negative attitudes are linked to non-attendance. Moreover, negative attitudes correlate with low socioeconomic position. South Africa [...] Read more.
Growth monitoring and promotion (GMP) is critical in tracking child growth to address widespread malnutrition and health status. Attitudes influence behaviour change, including attendance of GMP, and negative attitudes are linked to non-attendance. Moreover, negative attitudes correlate with low socioeconomic position. South Africa is characterized by inequality, which may lead to negative attitudes towards GMP among caregivers with a poor socioeconomic status. Hence, this study seeks to explore the attitudes of caregivers of children under five towards GMP. A qualitative exploratory study design was used. Caregivers of children under five were purposively sampled. Twenty-three participants were interviewed one-on-one, and the data were recorded using voice recorders and field notes. Tesch’s eight steps and inductive, descriptive, and open coding techniques were used to analyse the data. Participants understood the significance of GMP and were confident their children would benefit from it; hence, they attended sessions out of love for their children. The inconsistent availability of GMP services and the behaviour of health workers affected participants’ attitude. Despite these challenges, participants felt good about GMP. Caregivers’ love for their children/grandchildren helped them overcome challenges experienced at the health facilities. Good feelings about GMP boosted caregivers’ attitudes and aided in adherence. An intervention to address element impacting attitudes of caregivers is recommended. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the 3rd Ellisras Longitudinal Study and Other Non-communicable Diseases Studies International Conference)
11 pages, 241 KiB  
Article
HIV Status Disclosure to Adolescents Who Are Perinatally Infected in Rustenburg Sub District Northwest Province
by Happy Maybe Maambiwa Khangale, Ndidzulafhi Selina Raliphaswa and Azwidihwi Rose Tshililo
Children 2022, 9(12), 1989; https://doi.org/10.3390/children9121989 - 17 Dec 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1478
Abstract
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a viral disease caused by Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) which affects the immune system of human body. This study sought to explore how adolescents with perinatal HIV infection learn about their status as well as investigate their [...] Read more.
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a viral disease caused by Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) which affects the immune system of human body. This study sought to explore how adolescents with perinatal HIV infection learn about their status as well as investigate their preferences about the disclosure process. A qualitative exploratory, descriptive, and contextual research design was used to explore the disclosure of an HIV-positive status among adolescents on antiretroviral therapy. Nonprobability purposive sampling was used to select the healthcare facilities, and adolescents were chosen using convenience sampling. In-depth individual interviews were used to collect data from the participants until data saturation was reached. Collected data were analysed using Tesch’s eight steps. The results of the study revealed that adolescents have been on ART (antiretroviral therapy) without the knowledge of their own status but taking ART. Delayed disclosure of an HIV-positive status to adolescents lead to adolescent not adhering to ART and wondering why they are on treatment while other adolescents are not. The study further revealed that parents and caregivers struggle to disclose an HIV-positive status of their children, leading them to lie about what the treatment is for, for example, that it is a treatment for cough. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the 3rd Ellisras Longitudinal Study and Other Non-communicable Diseases Studies International Conference)
8 pages, 205 KiB  
Article
Perceptions of Caregivers Regarding Malnutrition in Children under Five in Rural Areas, South Africa
by Takalani. E Thabathi, Mary Maluleke, Ndidzulafhi. S Raliphaswa and Thingahangwi. C Masutha
Children 2022, 9(11), 1784; https://doi.org/10.3390/children9111784 - 21 Nov 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1424
Abstract
Children under five depend on the caregivers to provide them with nutritious food to combat malnutrition. Several studies have been conducted about malnutrition in children, yet limited attention has been paid to the caregivers. Thus, the study investigated the perceptions of caregivers with [...] Read more.
Children under five depend on the caregivers to provide them with nutritious food to combat malnutrition. Several studies have been conducted about malnutrition in children, yet limited attention has been paid to the caregivers. Thus, the study investigated the perceptions of caregivers with regard to non-nutritious foods in rural areas in South Africa. This study explored caregiver’s perception regarding non-nutritious food in children below five. This was done in primary health care clinics of Tshilwavhusiku local areas of Makhado Municipality in Vhembe District, South Africa. A qualitative approach was adopted. Nine caregivers were sampled randomly. In-depth individual interviews were conducted, and Tesch’s analytical approach was adopted to analyze the data measures to ensure trustworthiness and ethical considerations were adhered to throughout the study. The study revealed that caregivers were lacking knowledge regarding nutritious food to be given to their children and signs of malnutrition were also not known. It is imperative to ensure the improvement of caregivers’ knowledge regarding nutritious food and children’s nutritional status in order to reduce the malnutrition rate. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the 3rd Ellisras Longitudinal Study and Other Non-communicable Diseases Studies International Conference)
9 pages, 514 KiB  
Article
Overweight Prevalence among Rural Adolescents by Household Head Obesity and Socio-Economic Status in Limpopo, South Africa
by Peter M. Mphekgwana, Masenyani O. Mbombi, Livhuwani Muthelo, Joseph Tlouyamma, Rathani Nemuramba, Cairo Ntimana, Katlego Mothapo, Inos Dhau and Eric Maimela
Children 2022, 9(11), 1728; https://doi.org/10.3390/children9111728 - 10 Nov 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1348
Abstract
Background: Childhood obesity has become the most important and growing public health problem in the world. They add to public health challenges by increasing the burden of chronic non-communicable diseases. However, in spite of its importance, there is limited literature that evaluates the [...] Read more.
Background: Childhood obesity has become the most important and growing public health problem in the world. They add to public health challenges by increasing the burden of chronic non-communicable diseases. However, in spite of its importance, there is limited literature that evaluates the prevalence of obesity among rural adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa. We report the first study to present an insight into rural black overweight South African children and the physical characteristics and socio-economic status of the household head. A quantitative cross-sectional population study was conducted involving 51 selected primary villages within the DIMAMO surveillance area in the Capricorn District of Limpopo Province, South Africa. The study involved 294 adolescents, 154 girls and 140 boys, who were under the age of 18. Of these participants, 127 (43%) were within the normal weight range, and 167 (57%) were overweight. Gender made a significant difference, with more girls being overweight than boys. Adolescents who did not receive child grants and whose heads of household were 45–54 years old, poor, and overweight had a higher prevalence of obesity (p-value < 0.05). This study suggests that public health interventionists need to target both the heads of household and their children in hopes of reducing the prevalence of overweight and obese South African children. We further propose a better understanding of the causes of childhood overweight and obesity to guide policy development and implementation in rural settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the 3rd Ellisras Longitudinal Study and Other Non-communicable Diseases Studies International Conference)
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14 pages, 576 KiB  
Article
Alcohol Use among High School Learners in the Peri-Urban Areas, South Africa: A Descriptive Study on Accessibility, Motivations and Effects
by Mmampedi Mathibe, Lindiwe Cele and Perpetua Modjadji
Children 2022, 9(9), 1342; https://doi.org/10.3390/children9091342 - 01 Sep 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4148
Abstract
Learners are vulnerable to alcohol use and its negative effects, largely due to accessibility of alcohol products, especially in the localities with poor socioeconomic status and infrastructure. This study aimed to determine the accessibility, motivations and effects of alcohol use among high school [...] Read more.
Learners are vulnerable to alcohol use and its negative effects, largely due to accessibility of alcohol products, especially in the localities with poor socioeconomic status and infrastructure. This study aimed to determine the accessibility, motivations and effects of alcohol use among high school learners (n = 403) in Tshwane North and West, South Africa, using a descriptive, cross-sectional design. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire and analysed using STATA 17. Learners (16 ± 2 years) had poor demographic status and lifestyle behaviors. Availability of alcohol outlets (54%) near schools was reported, and learners indicated easy access (65%) to taverns and bottle stores (30%), and purchasing alcohol without a proof of identity document (70%). Motivations for alcohol use were self-pleasure (36%), coping with stress (24%) and increasing self-esteem (19%). Almost half of the learners (49%) introduced themselves to alcohol use, while others were influenced by friends (36%) and family (14%). Reported alcohol related effects were a negative impact on health (56%), brain function (25%) and school work (12%), in addition to social harms, including problems with friends (25%) and parents (17%), physical fights (19%) and engaging in risky sexual behaviour (11%). Effective strategies are necessary to address underage alcohol use and should include regulating the proximity of alcohol outlets to schools, life skills training to address learners’ drinking motives and constantly alerting parents about the relevance of modeling behaviour. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the 3rd Ellisras Longitudinal Study and Other Non-communicable Diseases Studies International Conference)
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