• Overview
  • Obesity prevalence
  • Trends over time
  • Population breakdowns
  • Drivers
  • Comorbidities
  • Economic impact
  • Policies
  • Contextual factors
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Obesity prevalence

Adults, 2022

Survey type:Measured
Age:20-49
Sample size:10498
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) and ICF. 2024. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2022. Accra, Ghana, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS and ICF.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2017

Survey type:Measured
Age:15-49
Sample size:1002
Area covered:National
References:University of Ghana, GroundWork, University of Wisconsin-Madison, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust, UNICEF. Ghana Micronutrient Survey 2017. Accra, Ghana; 2017
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2016-2017

Survey type:Measured
Age:18+
Sample size:1106
Area covered:National
References:Li J, Owusu IK, Geng Q, Folson AA, Zheng Z, Adu-Boakye Y, Dong X, Wu WC, Agyekum F, Fei H, Ayetey H, Deng M, Adomako-Boateng F, Jiang Z, Abubakari BB, Xian Z, Fokuoh FN, Appiah LT, Liu S, Lin C. Cardiometabolic Risk Factors and Preclinical Target Organ Damage Among Adults in Ghana: Findings From a National Study. J Am Heart Assoc. 2020 Dec 15;9(24):e017492. doi: 10.1161/JAHA.120.017492. Epub 2020 Dec 7. PMID: 33283559; PMCID: PMC7955390.
Notes:Age Standardised
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2014

Survey type:Measured
Age:15-49
Sample size:4268
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service - GSS, Ghana Health Service - GHS, and ICF International. 2015. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2014. Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS, GHS, and ICF International. Available at http://www.dhsprogram.com/publications/publication-FR307-DHS-Final-Reports.cfm (last accessed 11th April 2016)
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2008

Survey type:Measured
Age:15-49
Sample size:4380
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service - GSS, Ghana Health Service - GHS, and ICF Macro. 2009. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2008. Accra, Ghana: GSS, GHS, and ICF Macro.
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Adults, 2004

Survey type:Measured
Age:20+
Sample size:1431
Area covered:Regional
References:Agyemang C. Rural and urban differences in blood pressure and hypertension in Ghana, West Africa. Public Health. 2006 Jun;120(6):525-33. doi: 10.1016/j.puhe.2006.02.002. Epub 2006 May 8. PMID: 16684547.
Notes:Due to limited availability on data in males in Ghana, we calculated total male and female figures (from separate urban and rural figures) using the World Bank % Urban for Ghana from 2004.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2003

Survey type:Measured
Age:15-49
Sample size:4835
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service - GSS, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research - NMIMR/Ghana, and ORC Macro. 2004. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2003. Calverton, Maryland: GSS, NMIMR, and ORC Macro.
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 1993

Survey type:Measured
Age:15-49
Sample size:1173
References:Martorell R, Khan LK, Hughes ML, Grummer Strawn LM. Obesity in women from developing countries. EJCN (2000) 54;247-252
Notes:The data from this paper was sourced from the Demographic Health Survey Programme https://dhsprogram.com/ Central Statistical Office and Macro International. Calverton, Maryland, USA
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Children, 2022

Survey type:Measured
Age:15-19
Sample size:2760
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) and ICF. 2024. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2022. Accra, Ghana, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS and ICF.
Cutoffs:+1SD to 2SD />2SD

Children, 2014

Survey type:Measured
Age:15-19
Sample size:1358
Area covered:National
References:Benedict, Rukundo K., Allison Schmale, and Sorrel Namaste. 2018. Adolescent Nutrition 2000-2017: DHS Data on Adolescents Age 15-19. DHS Comparative Report No. 47. Rockville, Maryland, USA: ICF. Ghana Statistical Service - GSS, Ghana Health Service - GHS, and ICF International. 2015. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2014. Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS, GHS, and ICF International
Notes:651 girls and 707 boys
Definitions:BMI for age: between +1 SD and +2 SD is overweight and greater than +2 SD is obesity
Cutoffs:WHO 2007

Children, 2012

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:13-17
Sample size:1984
Area covered:National
References:Ghana - Global School-Based Student Health Survey 2012 https://www.who.int/ncds/surveillance/gshs/ghana/en/ (Last accessed 20.10.2020)
Notes:A two-stage cluster sample design was used to produce data representative of all students in Grades SHS 1-4 in Ghana Senior High.
Cutoffs:WHO

Children, 2007

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:13-15
Sample size:6236
Area covered:National
References:Global School-based Student Health Survey (GSHS), available at https://www.who.int/ncds/surveillance/gshs/2007_Ghana_fact_sheet.pdf?ua=1 (last accessed 24.11.20)
Cutoffs:WHO

0-5 years, 2017-2018

Survey type:Measured
Age:0-5
Sample size:8775
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service, 2018. Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS2017/18), Survey Findings Report. Accra, Ghana: GSS.https://mics-surveys-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/MICS6/West%20and%20Central%20Africa/Ghana/2017-2018/Survey%20findings/Ghana%202017-18%20MICS%20Survey%20Findings%20Report_English.pdf (Last accessed 22.06.21)
Notes:Infants.
Definitions:Weight for Height. Overweight = 2SD-3SD, Obesity =>3SD
Cutoffs:Other

0-5 years, 2017-2018

Age:0-5
Sample size:8775
References:MICS: Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS2017/18), Survey Findings Report. Accra, Ghana: GSS
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 2014

Age:0-5
Sample size:2902
References:DHS: Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2014. Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS, GHS, and ICF International.
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 2011

Age:0-5
Sample size:7379
References:MICS: Ghana multiple indicator cluster survey (MICS) with an enhanced malaria module and biomarker 2011: Final report. Accra, Ghana, 2012
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 2008

Age:0-5
Sample size:2579
References:DHS: Ghana demographic and health survey 2008. Demographic and Health Surveys. Accra, Ghana: GSS, GHS, and ICF Macro, 2009
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 2006

Age:0-5
Sample size:3348
References:MICS: Monitoring the situation of children, women and men. Ghana Multiple indicator cluster survey 2006.
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 2003

Age:0-5
Sample size:3240
References:DHS: Ghana demographic and health survey 2003. Demographic and Health Surveys. Calverton, Maryland: GSS, NMIMR, and ORC Macro, 2004
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 1998-1999

Age:0-5
Sample size:2722
References:DHS: Ghana demographic and health survey 1998. Demographic and Health Surveys. Calverton, Maryland: GSS and MI, 1999
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 1997

Age:0-5
Sample size:1395770
References:CWIQ: Ghana Core Welfare Indicators Questionnaire Survey 1997, First round
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 1993-1994

Age:0-5
Sample size:1914
References:DHS: Ghana demographic and health survey 1993. Demographic and Health Surveys. Calverton, Maryland: GSS and MI, 1994
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 1988

Age:0-5
Sample size:1979
References:DHS: Ghana demographic and health survey 1988. Demographic and Health Surveys. Ghana Statistical Service. Accra, Ghana, 1989
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

Overweight/obesity by education

Men, 2022

Survey type:Measured
Age:20-49
Sample size:10498
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) and ICF. 2024. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2022. Accra, Ghana, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS and ICF.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2022

Survey type:Measured
Age:20-49
Sample size:10498
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) and ICF. 2024. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2022. Accra, Ghana, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS and ICF.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2017

Survey type:Measured
Age:15-49
Sample size:1002
Area covered:National
References:University of Ghana, GroundWork, University of Wisconsin-Madison, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust, UNICEF. Ghana Micronutrient Survey 2017. Accra, Ghana; 2017
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2014

Survey type:Measured
Age:15-49
Sample size:4268
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service - GSS, Ghana Health Service - GHS, and ICF International. 2015. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2014. Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS, GHS, and ICF International.. http://www.dhsprogram.com/publications/publication-FR307-DHS-Final-Reports.cfm (last accessed 11th April 2016)
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2014

Survey type:Measured
Age:15-49
Sample size:4268
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service - GSS, Ghana Health Service - GHS, and ICF International. 2015. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2014. Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS, GHS, and ICF International.. http://www.dhsprogram.com/publications/publication-FR307-DHS-Final-Reports.cfm (last accessed 11th April 2016)
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Boys, 2022

Survey type:Measured
Age:15-19
Sample size:2760
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) and ICF. 2024. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2022. Accra, Ghana, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS and ICF.
Notes:33 Students who were educated beyone Secondary were excluded from this analysis as the sample size too small
Cutoffs:+1SD to 2SD />2SD

Girls, 2022

Survey type:Measured
Age:15-19
Sample size:2760
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) and ICF. 2024. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2022. Accra, Ghana, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS and ICF.
Notes:33 Students who were educated beyone Secondary were excluded from this analysis as the sample size too small
Cutoffs:+1SD to 2SD />2SD

0-5 years, 2017-2018

Sample size:8775
References:MICS: Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS2017/18), Survey Findings Report. Accra, Ghana: GSS
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 2014

Sample size:2902
References:DHS: Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2014. Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS, GHS, and ICF International.
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 2011

Sample size:7379
References:MICS: Ghana multiple indicator cluster survey (MICS) with an enhanced malaria module and biomarker 2011: Final report. Accra, Ghana, 2012
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 2008

Sample size:2579
References:DHS: Ghana demographic and health survey 2008. Demographic and Health Surveys. Accra, Ghana: GSS, GHS, and ICF Macro, 2009
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 2006

Sample size:3348
References:MICS: Monitoring the situation of children, women and men. Ghana Multiple indicator cluster survey 2006.
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 2003

Sample size:3240
References:DHS: Ghana demographic and health survey 2003. Demographic and Health Surveys. Calverton, Maryland: GSS, NMIMR, and ORC Macro, 2004
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 1998-1999

Sample size:2722
References:DHS: Ghana demographic and health survey 1998. Demographic and Health Surveys. Calverton, Maryland: GSS and MI, 1999
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 1993-1994

Sample size:1914
References:DHS: Ghana demographic and health survey 1993. Demographic and Health Surveys. Calverton, Maryland: GSS and MI, 1994
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 1988

Sample size:1979
References:DHS: Ghana demographic and health survey 1988. Demographic and Health Surveys. Ghana Statistical Service. Accra, Ghana, 1989
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

Overweight/obesity by age

Adults, 2022

Survey type:Measured
Sample size:10498
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) and ICF. 2024. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2022. Accra, Ghana, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS and ICF.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2017

Survey type:Measured
Sample size:1002
Area covered:National
References:University of Ghana, GroundWork, University of Wisconsin-Madison, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust, UNICEF. Ghana Micronutrient Survey 2017. Accra, Ghana; 2017
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Overweight/obesity by region

Men, 2022

Survey type:Measured
Age:20-49
Sample size:10498
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) and ICF. 2024. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2022. Accra, Ghana, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS and ICF.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2022

Survey type:Measured
Age:20-49
Sample size:10498
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) and ICF. 2024. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2022. Accra, Ghana, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS and ICF.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2017

Survey type:Measured
Age:15-49
Sample size:1002
Area covered:National
References:University of Ghana, GroundWork, University of Wisconsin-Madison, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust, UNICEF. Ghana Micronutrient Survey 2017. Accra, Ghana; 2017
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2014

Survey type:Measured
Age:15-49
Sample size:4268
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service - GSS, Ghana Health Service - GHS, and ICF International. 2015. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2014. Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS, GHS, and ICF International.
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2014

Survey type:Measured
Age:15-49
Sample size:4268
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service - GSS, Ghana Health Service - GHS, and ICF International. 2015. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2014. Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS, GHS, and ICF International.
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2014

Survey type:Measured
Age:15-49
Sample size:4268
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service - GSS, Ghana Health Service - GHS, and ICF International. 2015. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2014. Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS, GHS, and ICF International.
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2014

Survey type:Measured
Age:15-49
Sample size:4268
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service - GSS, Ghana Health Service - GHS, and ICF International. 2015. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2014. Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS, GHS, and ICF International.
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Boys, 2022

Survey type:Measured
Age:15-19
Sample size:2760
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) and ICF. 2024. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2022. Accra, Ghana, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS and ICF.
Cutoffs:+1SD to 2SD />2SD

Girls, 2022

Survey type:Measured
Age:15-19
Sample size:2760
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) and ICF. 2024. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2022. Accra, Ghana, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS and ICF.
Cutoffs:+1SD to 2SD />2SD

0-5 years, 2017-2018

Survey type:Measured
Sample size:8775
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service, 2018. Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS2017/18), Survey Findings Report. Accra, Ghana: GSS.https://mics-surveys-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/MICS6/West%20and%20Central%20Africa/Ghana/2017-2018/Survey%20findings/Ghana%202017-18%20MICS%20Survey%20Findings%20Report_English.pdf (Last accessed 22.06.21)
Notes:Infants.
Definitions:Weight for Height. Overweight = 2SD-3SD, Obesity =>3SD
Cutoffs:Other

0-5 years, 2017-2018

Sample size:8775
References:MICS: Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS2017/18), Survey Findings Report. Accra, Ghana: GSS
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 2014

Sample size:2902
References:DHS: Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2014. Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS, GHS, and ICF International.
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 2011

Sample size:7379
References:MICS: Ghana multiple indicator cluster survey (MICS) with an enhanced malaria module and biomarker 2011: Final report. Accra, Ghana, 2012
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 2008

Sample size:2579
References:DHS: Ghana demographic and health survey 2008. Demographic and Health Surveys. Accra, Ghana: GSS, GHS, and ICF Macro, 2009
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 2006

Sample size:3348
References:MICS: Monitoring the situation of children, women and men. Ghana Multiple indicator cluster survey 2006.
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 2003

Sample size:3240
References:DHS: Ghana demographic and health survey 2003. Demographic and Health Surveys. Calverton, Maryland: GSS, NMIMR, and ORC Macro, 2004
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 1998-1999

Sample size:2722
References:DHS: Ghana demographic and health survey 1998. Demographic and Health Surveys. Calverton, Maryland: GSS and MI, 1999
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 1997

Sample size:1395770
References:CWIQ: Ghana Core Welfare Indicators Questionnaire Survey 1997, First round
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 1993-1994

Sample size:1914
References:DHS: Ghana demographic and health survey 1993. Demographic and Health Surveys. Calverton, Maryland: GSS and MI, 1994
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 1988

Sample size:1979
References:DHS: Ghana demographic and health survey 1988. Demographic and Health Surveys. Ghana Statistical Service. Accra, Ghana, 1989
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

Overweight/obesity by socio-economic group

Men, 2022

Survey type:Measured
Age:20-49
Sample size:10498
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) and ICF. 2024. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2022. Accra, Ghana, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS and ICF.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2022

Survey type:Measured
Age:20-49
Sample size:10498
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) and ICF. 2024. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2022. Accra, Ghana, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS and ICF.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2017

Survey type:Measured
Age:15-49
Sample size:1002
Area covered:National
References:University of Ghana, GroundWork, University of Wisconsin-Madison, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust, UNICEF. Ghana Micronutrient Survey 2017. Accra, Ghana; 2017
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Men, 2014

Survey type:Measured
Age:15-49
Sample size:4268
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service - GSS, Ghana Health Service - GHS, and ICF International. 2015. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2014. Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS, GHS, and ICF International.. http://www.dhsprogram.com/publications/publication-FR307-DHS-Final-Reports.cfm (last accessed 11th April 2016)
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Women, 2014

Survey type:Measured
Age:15-49
Sample size:4268
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service - GSS, Ghana Health Service - GHS, and ICF International. 2015. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2014. Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS, GHS, and ICF International.. http://www.dhsprogram.com/publications/publication-FR307-DHS-Final-Reports.cfm (last accessed 11th April 2016)
Notes:Demographic Health Survey data includes ever married women aged 15-49 years only and may include males aged 15-59.
Unless otherwise noted, overweight refers to a BMI between 25kg and 29.9kg/m², obesity refers to a BMI greater than 30kg/m².

Boys, 2022

Survey type:Measured
Age:15-19
Sample size:2760
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) and ICF. 2024. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2022. Accra, Ghana, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS and ICF.
Cutoffs:+1SD to 2SD />2SD

Girls, 2022

Survey type:Measured
Age:15-19
Sample size:2760
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) and ICF. 2024. Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2022. Accra, Ghana, and Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS and ICF.
Cutoffs:+1SD to 2SD />2SD

0-5 years, 2017-2018

Survey type:Measured
Sample size:8775
Area covered:National
References:Ghana Statistical Service, 2018. Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS2017/18), Survey Findings Report. Accra, Ghana: GSS.https://mics-surveys-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/MICS6/West%20and%20Central%20Africa/Ghana/2017-2018/Survey%20findings/Ghana%202017-18%20MICS%20Survey%20Findings%20Report_English.pdf (Last accessed 22.06.21)
Notes:Infants.
Definitions:Weight for Height. Overweight = 2SD-3SD, Obesity =>3SD
Cutoffs:Other

0-5 years, 2017-2018

Sample size:8775
References:MICS: Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS2017/18), Survey Findings Report. Accra, Ghana: GSS
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 2014

Sample size:2902
References:DHS: Ghana Demographic and Health Survey 2014. Rockville, Maryland, USA: GSS, GHS, and ICF International.
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 2011

Sample size:7379
References:MICS: Ghana multiple indicator cluster survey (MICS) with an enhanced malaria module and biomarker 2011: Final report. Accra, Ghana, 2012
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 2008

Sample size:2579
References:DHS: Ghana demographic and health survey 2008. Demographic and Health Surveys. Accra, Ghana: GSS, GHS, and ICF Macro, 2009
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 2006

Sample size:3348
References:MICS: Monitoring the situation of children, women and men. Ghana Multiple indicator cluster survey 2006.
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 2003

Sample size:3240
References:DHS: Ghana demographic and health survey 2003. Demographic and Health Surveys. Calverton, Maryland: GSS, NMIMR, and ORC Macro, 2004
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 1998-1999

Sample size:2722
References:DHS: Ghana demographic and health survey 1998. Demographic and Health Surveys. Calverton, Maryland: GSS and MI, 1999
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 1997

Sample size:1395770
References:CWIQ: Ghana Core Welfare Indicators Questionnaire Survey 1997, First round
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

0-5 years, 1993-1994

Sample size:1914
References:DHS: Ghana demographic and health survey 1993. Demographic and Health Surveys. Calverton, Maryland: GSS and MI, 1994
Notes:UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Joint Child Malnutrition Estimates Expanded Database: Overweight (Survey Estimates), May 2023, New York. For more information about the methodology, please consult https://data.unicef.org/resources/jme-2023-country-consultations/ Percentage of children under 5 years of age falling above 2 standard deviations (moderate and severe) from the median weight-for-height of the reference population.
Definitions:=>+2SD

Insufficient physical activity

Adults, 2022

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Area covered:National
References:WHO (2024). Prevalence of insufficient physical activity among adults aged 18-years age-standardized estimate in 2022. Available at https://www.who.int/data/gho/data/indicators/indicator-details/GHO/prevalence-of-insufficient-physical-activity-among-adults-aged-18-years-(age-standardized-estimate)-(-)
Definitions:Percent of population attaining less than 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week, or less than 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week, or equivalent.

Men, 2022

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Area covered:National
References:WHO (2024). Prevalence of insufficient physical activity among adults aged 18-years age-standardized estimate in 2022. Available at https://www.who.int/data/gho/data/indicators/indicator-details/GHO/prevalence-of-insufficient-physical-activity-among-adults-aged-18-years-(age-standardized-estimate)-(-)
Definitions:Percent of population attaining less than 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week, or less than 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week, or equivalent.

Women, 2022

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:18+
Area covered:National
References:WHO (2024). Prevalence of insufficient physical activity among adults aged 18-years age-standardized estimate in 2022. Available at https://www.who.int/data/gho/data/indicators/indicator-details/GHO/prevalence-of-insufficient-physical-activity-among-adults-aged-18-years-(age-standardized-estimate)-(-)
Definitions:Percent of population attaining less than 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week, or less than 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week, or equivalent.

Adults, 2016

References:Guthold R, Stevens GA, Riley LM, Bull FC. Worldwide trends in insufficient physical activity from 2001 to 2016: a pooled analysis of 358 population-based surveys with 1.9 million participants. Lancet 2018 http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S2214-109X(18)30357-7

Men, 2016

References:Guthold R, Stevens GA, Riley LM, Bull FC. Worldwide trends in insufficient physical activity from 2001 to 2016: a pooled analysis of 358 population-based surveys with 1.9 million participants. Lancet 2018 http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S2214-109X(18)30357-7

Women, 2016

References:Guthold R, Stevens GA, Riley LM, Bull FC. Worldwide trends in insufficient physical activity from 2001 to 2016: a pooled analysis of 358 population-based surveys with 1.9 million participants. Lancet 2018 http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S2214-109X(18)30357-7

Children, 2016

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:11-17
References:Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, https://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893ADO?lang=en (last accessed 16.03.21)
Notes:% of school going adolescents not meeting WHO recommendations on Physical Activity for Health, i.e. doing less than 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily.
Definitions:% Adolescents insufficiently active (age standardised estimate)

Boys, 2016

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:11-17
References:Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, https://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893ADO?lang=en (last accessed 16.03.21)
Notes:% of school going adolescents not meeting WHO recommendations on Physical Activity for Health, i.e. doing less than 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily.
Definitions:% Adolescents insufficiently active (age standardised estimate)

Girls, 2016

Survey type:Self-reported
Age:11-17
References:Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, https://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893ADO?lang=en (last accessed 16.03.21)
Notes:% of school going adolescents not meeting WHO recommendations on Physical Activity for Health, i.e. doing less than 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily.
Definitions:% Adolescents insufficiently active (age standardised estimate)

Children, 2010

Age:11-17
References:Global Health Observatory data repository, World Health Organisation, http://apps.who.int/gho/data/node.main.A893?lang=en
Notes:% of school going adolescents not meeting WHO recommendations on Physical Activity for Health, i.e. doing less than 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily.
Definitions:% Adolescents insufficiently active (age standardised estimate)