From Campus Life to Global Health: Understanding Non-Communicable Diseases and Physical Inactivity Among Ghanaian University Students.

ABSTRACT
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have become a significant
global health concern, with the majority of mortalities occurring in
low and middle-income countries. This study focused on the rising
prevalence of physical inactivity among regular university
students and aimed at contributing to the limited literature on
barriers to physical activity (PA) in this demographic. While the
impact of NCDs extends beyond physical health, causing societal
and economic repercussions, there is insufficient attention on
physical inactivity among regular university students in Africa.
The study utilised a cross-sectional research design with primary
quantitative data collected through Google Forms. The results were
analysed using a 2x3 factorial Analysis of Variance (ANOVA).
Interaction between gender and age was also significant, F (1, 667)
=13.593, p<0.000, partial n2=.020). Results also indicated a
significant decline in PA levels as regular university students
progress from adolescence to early adulthood. Health reasons predominantly motivate PA, while barriers include lack of time
and access to sports environments. The findings underscore the
importance of targeted health promotion initiatives within
universities, considering the influential role of health and wellness
factors. Additionally, the study highlights the need for gender specific
strategies and ongoing monitoring of PA levels to inform
interventions and contribute to global efforts in achieving
Sustainable Development Goal 3 Target 4 by 2030.1