Non-Communicable Disease Screening Behavior and Determinants Among Bank Employees in Dire Dawa City, Eastern Ethiopia

Abstract

Background: The significance of non-communicable disease screening behavior lies in its potential to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with these diseases. Early detection through screening can lead to more effective treatment and better health outcomes and can also play a crucial role in preventing the progression of the disease. The purpose of this study is to assess chronic disease screening practice and its predictors among overweight employees of the Bank of Dire Dawa using the health belief model.

Methods: An institutional-based cross-sectional study design was employed among 349 government and private bank employees in Dire Dawa city administration. A stratified sampling technique was used to recruit study respondents who provided information on socio-demographic, clinical-demographic, behavioral, lifestyle, and dietary habits. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine the chronic disease screening practice and its associated risk factors, January 2024.

Result: From 349 study participants, 156 (44.7%) have been screened for chronic disease. Female participants were 46.6% less likely to engage in screening compared to males (AOR = 0.534; 95% CI: 0.296, 0.964; p < 0.038). Job position was also a strong predictor; with each increase in office rank, the odds of screening rose significantly (AOR = 12.634, 95% CI: 1.300, 122.776, p = 0.029). Specifically, cashiers were 22.950 times (AOR = 22.950, 95% CI: 2.243, 234.845, p = 0.008) and clerks were 78.268 times (AOR = 78.268, 95% CI: 6.708, 913.254, p = 0.001) more likely to practice screening compared to lower-tier roles such as drivers, runners, and cleaners. Additionally, those who perceived a moderate benefit from screening were more than twice as likely to undergo screening compared to those with a high perceived benefit (AOR = 2.207, 95% CI: 1.147, 4.244, p < 0.018).

Conclusion: This study found that 44.7% of respondents had ever been screened. Older age groups and those with higher job positions were more likely to be screened. The study suggests a link between healthy lifestyle choices and lower stress around blood pressure screenings. The findings highlight the complex factors influencing chronic disease screening practices and the need for targeted interventions to improve screening rates across all demographics.