Non-Communicable Disease Crisis: Exploring the Impact of Stress, Lifestyle, and Mental Health Among Rural Health Workers

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a growing public health challenge globally, with rural health workers in Bangladesh facing significant stress, lifestyle-related risks, and mental health issues. Objective: This study explores the impact of these factors on rural health workers in Chuadanga district, Bangladesh. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from August to December 2023, involving 146 rural health workers. Data on stress levels, lifestyle habits, and mental health indicators such as anxiety, depression, and emotional exhaustion were collected through structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, correlations, and inferential analysis were used to examine the relationships between the variables. Results: The study revealed that 46.6% of participants experienced moderate stress, and 26.0% experienced high stress. Lifestyle habits were suboptimal, with 45.2% reporting irregular physical activity and 22.6% being smokers. Moderate levels of anxiety (43.8%) and depression (49.3%) were prevalent. Significant positive correlations were found between stress and anxiety (r=0.48, p<0.01) and between stress and depression (r=0.41, p<0.01). Poor sleep quality was also associated with higher stress levels (r=-0.29, p=0.02). Conclusion: The findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions to reduce stress, promote healthier lifestyle habits, and provide mental health support for rural health workers. Addressing these challenges is crucial for improving their well-being and the overall effectiveness of healthcare delivery in rural Bangladesh.