ABSTRACT
This study aims to explore and understand the lifestyles and quality of life perceptions among the employees within the health agency. By examining the routines, behaviors, and attitudes of this population, the research seeks to investigate their lifestyle and self-perception in the context of a health-focused work environment. It endeavors to provide a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between profiles, occupational health, and quality of life, offering insights that could inform targeted interventions for this demographic. This study utilizes the FANTASTIC Lifestyle Questionnaire, modified version, to assess the lifestyle patterns of a group of individuals. Concurrently, the study employs the Western Balkan States Health-Related Quality of Life Survey to evaluate their perceptions of quality of life. Aiming to discern potential correlations between lifestyle factors and perceived quality of life, the research utilizes a quantitative approach with a sample of respondents. The anticipated findings will inform management and pertinent stakeholders, providing new insights and strategies to enhance the lifestyles and quality of life perceptions among the health employees.
Keywords: Obesity, Healthy Lifestyle, Quality of Life, Lifestyle Factors, Self-Perception, Life Survey
INTRODUCTION
Globally, obesity has emerged as a significant public health challenge, affecting not only the general population but also healthcare workers (HCWs) who are at the frontline of patient care and health promotion. The prevalence of overweight and obesity among HCWs has reached alarming levels, with estimates indicating a combined prevalence of 65% in certain regions, such as the Gaza Strip, Palestine (Younis et al., 2023). This is notably higher than the general adult population indicates a concerning trend within the healthcare profession.
The ramifications of obesity extend beyond personal health, influencing the healthcare system's efficacy and the quality of patient care. Overweight and obesity are substantial contributors to poor health outcomes, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and an array of non-communicable diseases, which could severely impact the performance and wellbeing of healthcare professionals (Younis et al., 2023). This is particularly troubling, as healthcare workers, who are meant to be advocates for health and wellness and serve as role models for patients, may find it challenging to counsel patients on weight management if they themselves are struggling with similar issues.
The high prevalence of obesity in HCWs is partly due to lifestyle factors intrinsic to the healthcare profession, including irregular and extended work hours, high-stress environments, and sedentary work conditions. Additionally, higher income levels have been associated with an increased risk of obesity, substantiating the need for targeted interventions that address these unique occupational challenges (Younis et al., 2023).
The Philippines faces a growing obesity problem. According to the UNICEF (2022) as cited by the National Nutrition Council, data estimates that around 27 million Filipinos are obese. Adult overweight and obesity rates have nearly doubled in the past two decades, increasing from 20.2% in 1998 to 36.6% in 2019. This trend extends to teenagers as well, with prevalence rates of overweight and obesity more than doubling between 2003 (4.9%) and 2018 (11.6%).
Hence, to mitigate the burden of health risk prevalence on healthcare workers and the implications for healthcare service delivery, there is an imperative need to identify lifestyle and management interventions tailored specifically for this group. The healthcare sector's pursuit of initiatives that combine clinical efforts with community-wide strategies, exemplified by the Collaborate for Healthy Weight initiative in the U.S., shows promise in addressing the multifaceted nature of obesity prevention (Healthcare Obesity Prevention Recommendations: Complete List, 2012).
In summary, understanding the lifestyle and health risk assessments of healthcare workers is pivotal, as it represents an opportunity not only to improve the health outcomes of a critical workforce but also to strengthen the credibility and effectiveness of public health messaging.
Through this study, the researcher aims to understand the following:
1. The profile of the risk assessed health agency employees in terms of age, sex, civil status, birth year, address, Body Mass Index (BMI), address (urban or rural), intake of High-Fat/High-Salt diet, physical activity level, dietary intake for fruits, dietary intake for vegetables, with history of COVID-19 and with COVID-19 vaccination.
2. The level of recurrence of lifestyle consciousness of these health agency employees in terms of the indicators: Family, Activity, Nutrition, Tobacco and Toxics, Alcohol, Sleep, Stress, Personality, Insight and Career.
3. The level of Perception of Quality of Life of these health agency employees in the dimensions on Social Support, General Satisfaction and Physical Well-being.
4. The relationship between the Lifestyle consciousness and perception of Quality of Life of these target group.
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