Health promotion in workplaces as a strategy for modification of risk factors for Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs): A practical example from Sri Lanka

BACKGROUND: Non communicable diseases (NCDs) are emerging as a major public health concern worldwide and became a leading cause of mortality in Sri Lanka accounting for 65% of deaths. Health promotion strategies aimed at lifestyle modification are helpful in modifying risk factors for NCDs. OBJECTIVES: To transform a workplace to a health promotion setting where lifestyle changes in workers lead to a modification of risk factors for NCDs. METHODS: A health promotion program was conducted in a divisional administrative office, in Sri Lanka. An office health promotion committee was established and an action plan was prepared with participation of the workers. An interviewer administrated questionnaire was used to assess risk factors for NCDs. Workers were then screened for NCDs. Behavioral change and communication (BCC) programs were conducted to improve physical activity and dietary modifications. RESULTS: Workers actively participated realizing the ownership of their health. 32 males and 49 females (mean age of 40.8 years) were assessed. Among them, 23.4% were overweight and obese while 26% reported physical inactivity. Among males, 12.5% were smokers. Hypertension and dyslipidaemia were present among 9.9% and 12.3%, respectively. 6.2% had high fasting blood glucose values. The program resulted in identifying 12 new patients with NCDs. After initiating health promotion activities, smoking rate dropped by 75%. Physical inactivity was reduced by 14% and consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables increased by 19%. CONCLUSIONS: Programs targeting office settings are a new strategy for reduction of NCDs in Sri Lanka. True benefit of risk factor modification through BCC programs will become apparent in longitudinal assessments.