Lifestyle Pattern among Nepalese Migrant Workers in Gulf Countries and Malaysia

Abstract

Background: Nepal is one of the largest suppliers of low skilled laborer to gulf countries. The
conditions surrounding the migration can increase health vulnerabilities due to lifestyle pattern. This
study assessed the lifestyle pattern adopted by migrant workers in gulf countries and Malaysia.
Method: Descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 502 Nepali migrant workers arriving
in Tribhuvan International Airport from gulf countries and Malaysia during 15th May to 15th June 2019.
Face to face interview with structured questionnaires was done.
Results: More than half (51.5%) respondents consumed alcohol. Majority (96.8%) of the respondents
were non vegetarian and (69.3%) never did exercise, 7.6% respondents often consume extra added salt
in food. More than half (51%) respondents drank only 1-3 liters water per day. Majority (86.9%) of the
respondents worked 8-12 hours per day and 27.5% worked at temperature of 41-50 degree centigrade.
Painkiller was used sometimes by 19.5% respondents. About thirty two percent lived by sharing the
room with 6-10 people.
Conclusion: Nepalese migrant workers have unhealthy lifestyle pattern which increases the risk of
non-communicable diseases. Further there is a lack of adequate information for the migrants making
them aware of their health risks and consequences of lifestyle pattern.