Causes of Death Among Ghanaian Adolescents in Accra
Author Information
Author(s): Ohene Sally-Ann, Tettey Yao, Kumoji Robert
Primary Institution: World Health Organization Country Office in Ghana
Hypothesis
What are the causes of death among Ghanaian adolescents aged 10 to 19 years in Accra?
Conclusion
The study found that both communicable and non-communicable diseases are significant causes of death among adolescents in Accra, highlighting the need for improved healthcare management.
Supporting Evidence
- Out of 14,034 autopsies, 7% were among adolescents.
- 41.4% of deaths were from communicable diseases.
- Males were more susceptible to injuries than females.
- Sickle cell disease was among the top three specific causes of death.
Takeaway
This study looked at why teenagers in Accra, Ghana, die and found that many deaths are caused by diseases and injuries, showing that we need to take better care of their health.
Methodology
The study analyzed autopsy records from the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital for adolescents aged 10 to 19 years over a three-year period.
Potential Biases
There is a risk of under-reporting injury deaths as the data is derived from a hospital setting.
Limitations
The study's findings may not be generalizable to all Ghanaian adolescents due to selection bias from using hospital data.
Participant Demographics
The study included 882 adolescents aged 10 to 19 years, with 45.6% being females.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.000
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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