Examining the relationship between medical doctors' lifestyle behaviors and the incidence of lifestyle-related diseases: An observational cohort study

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Original Article

Author Details : Ajay M Godse*, Nayana B Gosavi, Bhagyashri L Karande, Vaidehi A Nawathe

Volume : 7, Issue : 4, Year : 2024

Article Page : 99-104

https://doi.org/10.18231/j.sajhp.2024.023

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Abstract

Background: Evaluating the presence of health-related lifestyle factors among physicians is crucial, as adopting healthy behaviors can significantly reduce mortality and morbidity, and positively impact patient counselling. Despite the expectation for physicians to advocate healthy behaviors to their patients, they themselves often fall short of meeting these standards of healthy lifestyle. Research indicates that risky behaviors such as alcohol consumption, tobacco use, and unhealthy eating habits tend to co-occur among physicians. This study aimed to assess the lifestyle behaviors of medical professionals at tertiary care center in order educate doctors about health-promoting behaviors and practices.
Materials and Methods: This prospective single center study recruited 74 doctors who were asked to fill questionnaire through google form eliciting existing comorbid conditions and habits, followed by physical assessment which comprised Blood pressure, height, weight, BMI, pulse, oxygen saturation (SpO2), neck & hip circumference, body composition & fat analysis.
Results: No significant association was observed between physical activity and visceral fat (p-value = 0.38), nor between physical activity and body fat composition (p-value = 0.57). However significant association between visceral fat levels and BMI with respect vegetarian and non-vegetarian dietary patterns were observed, highlighting the importance of diet for optimal health.
Conclusion: Study highlights necessity for a carefully devised strategy for medical proffesionals to have healthy dietary habits and regular exercise into daily routines, to not only have professional well-being but also as advocates for promoting overall physical and psychological health within society.

Keywords: Lifestyle behavior, Lifestyle diseases, Doctors, Fat composition, Diet

How to cite : Godse A M, Gosavi N B, Karande B L, Nawathe V A, Examining the relationship between medical doctors' lifestyle behaviors and the incidence of lifestyle-related diseases: An observational cohort study. South Asian J Health Prof 2024;7(4):99-104

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