Work-Related Stress and Substance Use as Risk Factors for Chronic Disease Among Three-Wheel Drivers in Galle, Sri Lanka: A Qualitative Study

Authors

  • JM Kirkorowicz Duke University Duke Global Health Institute
  • P Sapukotana University of Ruhuna Faculty of Medicine
  • PV De Silva University of Ruhuna Faculty of Medicine
  • M Noda Duke University, Duke Global Health Institute
  • JS de Oliveira Duke University, Duke Global Health Institute
  • T Østbye Duke University, Duke Global Health Institute

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3126/ijosh.v3i2.7662

Keywords:

Qualitative Research, Global Health, Non-Communicable Disease, Social Determinants of Health

Abstract

Background: Motor three-wheel drivers provide an important means of transportation in Sri Lanka, comprising 15% of motorized road vehicles. Although three-wheel driving is a widespread occupation for Sri Lankan men, little is known about their general health or risk factors.

Objectives: This paper investigates chronic illnesses and risk factors for such illnesses in a sample of 33 three-wheel drivers in Galle, Sri Lanka.

Methods: A qualitative investigation was conducted between June and August 2012. 20 three-wheel drivers participated in 60-minute semi-structured interviews, and 13 participated in semi- structured focus groups related to their work-related health concerns.

Results: Illness reported included musculoskeletal pain, hypercholesteremia, hypertension, and diabetes. Participants identified work-related stress and substance abuse as risk factors.

Conclusions: Participants described a cycle of work related stress, substance use, and chronic illness. Community-based education on the risks of substance use and alternative means of coping may be an effective  intervention for these workers.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijosh.v3i2.7662

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Published

2014-02-10

How to Cite

Kirkorowicz, J., Sapukotana, P., De Silva, P., Noda, M., de Oliveira, J., & Østbye, T. (2014). Work-Related Stress and Substance Use as Risk Factors for Chronic Disease Among Three-Wheel Drivers in Galle, Sri Lanka: A Qualitative Study. International Journal of Occupational Safety and Health, 3(2), 21–24. https://doi.org/10.3126/ijosh.v3i2.7662

Issue

Vol. 3 No. 2 (2013)

Section

Original Articles

License

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