Healthy lifestyle practices among government primary school teachers in selected districts of Pakistan

Background: Deaths due to unhealthy behaviors account for more than one-third of total deaths worldwide. In Pakistan, poor awareness and sanitation are major contributors to the diseases, but a balanced diet, hygiene, and exercise can reduce these risks. The present study aimed to determine the current status of healthy life practices among the teachers of the selected primary school. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from February to April 2019 in 600 selected government primary schools of three districts of Sindh: Thatta, Hyderabad, and Mirpur Khas. Two teachers of each school were selected through convenience sampling for the purpose of interviewing through a structured questionnaire. Results: The results revealed a generally moderate level of healthy lifestyle practices among primary school teachers. The majority of the teachers demonstrated good healthy hygiene practices. Statistically, 85% of the teachers practiced washing their hands before meals, and 69% practiced water purification through alum. A majority of the teachers, 82%, claimed to be early risers. Only 14% of the teachers practiced physical exercise. Conclusions: Although basic hygiene needs were adequately met, the level of physical inactivity among teachers suggests the need for health education programs for teachers.