The feasibility of non-communicable disease (NCD) risk-factor estimation among forest staff at Sahyadri Tiger Reserve in Central India

Abstract

ABSTRACT An increasing prevalence of non-communicable disease (NCD) risk factors in countries like India could pose a threat to the health and field capacities of forest staff. However, there is a lack of data globally about their NCD risks. Using data from preventive health checks conducted for forest staff at Sahyadri Tiger Reserve, in Maharashtra, Central India, this study assessed the feasibility of screening for NCD risk factors such as elevated glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C), abnormal lipid levels, use of tobacco and alcohol, high body mass index, high waist circumference, and elevated blood pressure. Follow-up surveys were conducted six months after preventive health interventions to collect details of health service utilization as well as feedback for the preventive health interventions. While reporting a high prevalence of NCD risk factors among forest staff – which could predispose them to cardiovascular disease – this study demonstrates that implementing workplace-based NCD screening interventions is feasible, effective, acceptable, and beneficial to forest staff. Key policy insights Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and associated risk factors may play an important role in the sustainability of conservation efforts. NCDs should be integrated as a key component of the One Health paradigm. Workplace-based interventions for prevention and screening of NCDs could provide a feasible and effective method to mitigate health inequalities faced by the conservation workforce. Collaborative efforts to address the health needs of conservation staff working in remote rural regions could help achieve mutually beneficial outcomes for human health and conservation.