Lifestyle Pattern among Nepalese Migrant Workers in Gulf Countries and Malaysia

Abstract

Background: Nepal is one of the largest suppliers of low skilled laborer to gulf countries. Theconditions surrounding the migration can increase health vulnerabilities due to lifestyle pattern. Thisstudy assessed the lifestyle pattern adopted by migrant workers in gulf countries and Malaysia.Method: Descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 502 Nepali migrant workers arrivingin Tribhuvan International Airport from gulf countries and Malaysia during 15th May to 15th June 2019.Face to face interview with structured questionnaires was done.Results: More than half (51.5%) respondents consumed alcohol. Majority (96.8%) of the respondentswere non vegetarian and (69.3%) never did exercise, 7.6% respondents often consume extra added saltin food. More than half (51%) respondents drank only 1-3 liters water per day. Majority (86.9%) of therespondents worked 8-12 hours per day and 27.5% worked at temperature of 41-50 degree centigrade.Painkiller was used sometimes by 19.5% respondents. About thirty two percent lived by sharing theroom with 6-10 people.Conclusion: Nepalese migrant workers have unhealthy lifestyle pattern which increases the risk ofnon-communicable diseases. Further there is a lack of adequate information for the migrants makingthem aware of their health risks and consequences of lifestyle pattern.