Non-communicable disease risk factors among a cohort of mine workers in Mongolia

Abstract

Abstract Background Prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCD) are growing among working populations globally. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates NCD are responsible for 80% of all premature deaths (Lancet, 2016). The purpose of this study is to determine baseline level of NCD and risk factors among mine workers and to identify intervention strategies based on results. The collected results will be compared with a NCD study on the general population of Mongolia. Methods A cross sectional design was used for this study. 684 employees were randomly recruited to the study. We utilised WHO questionnaire to collect anthropogenic measurements, health behaviours, alcohol consumption, smoking, NCD and work related information.. The study focused on four (4) key risk factors of hypertension, obesity, drinking habits and smoking habits. These factors are key contributors to NCD and decreased life expectancy. Results Results of the study showed prevalence's of hypertension 12.9%, obesity 64.1%, alcohol users 22.1% and smokers 38.8%. The general population prevalence's are 27.5%, 56.8%, 15.5% and 24.8% respectively. Differences between gender in the study cohort for smoking rate (men = 43.3%, women = 8.9%), alcohol consumption (men = 29.9%, women = 16.1%) and central obesity (men = 78.3%, women = 35.1%) were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Conclusions Prevalence of arterial hypertension for the mine worker cohort was lower than general population, however, obesity, drinking and smoking rates were higher. The study findings allow us to target intervention strategies to mitigate the risk of NCD development in the future. Key messages Understand the risk factors and control measures available to mitigate the risk of the development of NCD. Comparison of the mine site cohort with the general population to understand similarities and differences.