Physical activity and alcohol intake among primary health care workers in Almaty, Kazakhstan: a cross-sectional study

Healthcare workers are essential to primary health care, but their physical inactivity and alcohol consumption may compromise patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency.

This study aims to assess the level of healthy lifestyle among primary health care workers in Almaty city, Kazakhstan, focusing on two key components: physical activity and alcohol consumption patterns.

The cross-sectional study was conducted across 36 state primary health care facilities from October to November 2023 in Almaty, Kazakhstan. Standardized, validated questionnaires (IPAQ-SF and AUDIT-C) were used to assess physical activity and alcohol consumption. The final sample included general practitioners and nurses; other professional groups were excluded. Data were analyzed using SAS OnDemand for Academics (Release 3.81), including multivariable logistic regression to identify associated factors.

Among 1,484 participants, 94.3% were female and 84.7% Kazakh, with nurses comprising 68.3% of the sample. GPs were younger, less experienced, and more likely to smoke (29.1% vs. 17.0%, p < 0.001) and consume alcohol more frequently (p < 0.001). Logistic regression showed that male sex, younger age, being a GP, and smoking were significantly associated with higher odds of alcohol use. Female sex was linked to lower odds of meeting WHO physical activity recommendations.

General practitioners in Almaty exhibited higher rates of smoking and alcohol use than nurses, with male sex, younger age, and smoking identified as key predictors. Targeted health promotion efforts, especially for younger male GPs, are needed to reduce risk behaviors and support workforce well-being. Improving the health behaviors of PHC workers may enhance their role as health promoters and contribute to better patient care quality and health outcomes.