Socio-economic Factors as Correlates of Meal Skipping and Poor Eating Habits among Ghanaian Adolescents

Objective: This study aimed to assess the relationship between socio-economic factors, meal skipping, and poor eating habits among Ghanaian adolescents, with a focus on identifying the prevalence of these behaviors and their underlying determinants.

Study Design: A descriptive research design was employed to explore the influence of socioeconomic conditions on dietary behaviors among adolescents in Ghana.

Methodology: Data were collected using a self-structured questionnaire administered to 310 adolescents selected through convenience sampling. The analysis included descriptive statistics, such as frequencies and means, and Pearson Product-Moment Correlation to examine the relationships between socio-economic factors, meal skipping, and poor eating habits.

Results: The findings revealed a high prevalence of meal skipping, with 77.1% frequently skipping breakfast (Mean = 3.21) and a similar percentage relying on street food for lunch due to affordability (Mean = 3.34). Socio-economic factors were moderately correlated with meal skipping (r=0.451, p=0.008) and strongly correlated with poor eating habits (r=0.654, p=0.001). Stress, peer pressure, and cultural norms further exacerbated unhealthy dietary behaviors.

Conclusion: Meal skipping and poor eating habits among Ghanaian adolescents are significantly influenced by socio-economic disparities, including financial constraints and limited parental education. These behaviors contribute to nutritional deficiencies, obesity, and diminished cognitive performance, necessitating targeted interventions.