Prevalence of Risky Conditions and Behaviors Leading to Chronic Diseases in Healthcare Workers in Yozgat Provincial Center

Objective: The aim of this study was to establish the prevalence of the prominent risky behaviors and conditions that may lead to and/or create a predisposition to chronic diseases among healthcare workers. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study included all healthcare workers (n=913) actively working in the province center of Yozgat in 2009; 835 healthcare workers participated in the study. The data were gathered by a questionnaire prepared by the investigator, based on the literature. Data were analyzed by binary logistic regression analysis. Results: Among the 10 risky behaviors and situations related to chronic diseases, the highest rates were for inadequate fruit and vegetable consumption, insufficient exercise, and not restraining salt and fat intake (87.0%, 79.8%, 80.6%, 77.8%, respectively). The lowest rates were for alcohol intake once a week or more often, not having blood pressure and blood sugar measured within the past two years, and cholesterol within the past five years (3.0%, 7.7%, 17.2%, 17.4%, respectively). While 19.5% of the participants had three or less risky behaviors, 26.7% had six or more. Conclusion: Among healthcare workers, health technicians, males, those divorced/widowed, and those who are discontent with their lives had more risky behaviors, compared to the other groups. In order to preserve health, and promote a better health standard and to increase the awareness among healthcare workers, courses on "healthy lifestyle behaviors" should be integrated in the undergraduate and postgraduate educational programs.