Assessment of Nutritional Awareness and Healthy Lifestyle of Makkah Health Cluster Hospitals Employees

Abstract

Background
Nutrition knowledge is crucial for promoting healthy dietary practices and preventing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. In Saudi Arabia, rising living standards have led to lifestyle changes contributing to the prevalence of NCDs. Despite this, there is limited research on the nutritional awareness and lifestyle behaviors of healthcare workers, particularly in Makkah Health Cluster Hospitals. This study aims to evaluate the nutritional knowledge, dietary habits, and perceptions of healthy lifestyles among hospital employees to inform potential interventions.
Objectives
Assess nutritional knowledge, dietary habits, and lifestyle behaviors as well as, Identify areas for improvement in workplace dining facilities and employee nutrition education.
Materials and Methods
• Study Design: Cross-sectional, prospective, and non-interventional.
• Population: Employees (clinical and non-clinical) of 10 Makkah Health Cluster Hospitals.
• Sample Size: Based on the total employees, representative sample calculated statistically.
• Data Collection Tools: A validated questionnaire covering demographics, dietary habits, and self-reported anthropometric measurements.
• Data Analysis: Descriptive and inferential statistics (SPSS/STATA).
Results
Among 243 respondents (58% male, median age: 38 years), 29% had a BMI ≥ 25, indicating overweight or obesity. While 63% engaged in moderate physical activity, gaps in nutritional knowledge and dietary habits were evident, with many employees lacking awareness of calorie needs and consuming high amounts of coffee. Additionally, significant dissatisfaction with workplace dining facilities was reported. These findings highlight the need for workplace policy interventions, including improved dining facilities, enhanced nutritional education, and increased involvement of dietitians to support healthy eating and lifestyle behaviours among healthcare employees.
Conclusion
The study highlights the need for evidence-based dietary policies, enhanced nutrition education, and improved dining facilities in healthcare institutions. Lifelong nutrition education and greater involvement of registered dietitians are essential for fostering healthy behaviors among healthcare employees