Factors contributing to non-communicable diseases amongst nurses in a rural community of the North West Province of South Africa

Abstract

Background: There is an increased contribution on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) to the burden of diseases, which are a growing cause of death and disability. The impact of obesity has become a seminal public health issue, especially diabetes and hypertension. Purpose: The study aimed at investigating the factors contributing to NCDs amongst nurses in a rural community of the North-West Province of South Africa. Methods: The design for this study was a descriptive, cross-sectional survey. Participants were 150 nurses. The instrument for data collection was a self-administered questionnaire. Permission to conduct this study was sought from DoH and hospital management. The Government Employee Medical Scheme (GEMS) assisted with collecting data on blood pressure, blood glucose, BMI, weight, and other anthropometric measurements. Chi square and the generalized linear model were used to determine the possible relationship between and effects of demographic features, dietary and drinking patterns as well as anthropometric features on obesity. Results and conclusions: The results of this study showed that marital status, physical activity, increased intake of chicken , fried foods, fruit juice, alcohol , as well as less intake of water had an impact on NCDs, especially obesity among professional and enrolled nurses. The study also found out that waist-to-hip ratio as well as body weight are predictors of obesity among nurses. It is important therefore that the awareness of the risk of NCDs such as obesity be emphasized among nurses of all categories. Recommendation: The participation of nurses in the wellness programme should be encouraged and possibly made compulsory in order to reduce the risk of NCDs among nurses in the North-West Province.