Predictors of Health Promoting Lifestyle Among Midwives Employed in Hospitals and Health Centres of Qazvin, Iran

Abstract

Background and aims: Midwives experience a high level of stress due to heavy workloads, which has been shown to have adverse effects on well-being. Accordingly, the main goal of this study was to assess the predictors associated with a healthy lifestyle in a sample of midwives working in hospitals and health centers of Qazvin, Iran. Methods: A total of 200 midwives were recruited using convenience sampling method. Each subject completed a demographic questionnaire, the Farsi version of the Health Promoting Lifestyle Profile Questionnaire, and Perceived Social Support Questionnaire. A multivariate linear regression model was used to assess the predictors of health promoting lifestyle (HPL). Results: Spiritual growth (2.78±0.53) and nutrition (2.79±0.45) had the highest scores among HPL subscales. Conversely, subjects had the lowest score in physical activity (2.02±0.64). Multivariate regression analyses showed that workplace (β=-0.19, P=0.03), involving in professional sports (β=0.2, P=0.01), and perception of an adequate social support network (β=0.47, P<0.001) were the strongest predictors of HPL. These predictors accounted for 27% of the variance in the model. Conclusion: Considering the predictive role of three variables including workplace, involving in professional sport, and having adequate social support, HPL interventions can be designed and implemented. Improving working conditions, strengthening social support networks, and increasing physical activity might be beneficial measures to improve midwives’ HPL.

Keywords

• midwife
• lifestyle
• health promotion
• social support