Prevalence of Non-communicable Diseases in Doctors

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of death world over affecting people from each strata of life. Unfortunately, the pinnacle of the health care system is not untouched either. Long working hours, occupational stress, sedentary work habits, patient load because of over population and hectic lifestyle have all put a grave burden on the doctors thus leading to unhealthy lifestyle with habits of drinking, smoking, eating junk foods and lack of physical exercise. From the reviewed studies it was found out that, to combat work stress, consumption of alcohol and smoking were commonly seen in doctors which revealed occurrence of cancer and respiratory problems. Erratic working hours led to lack of physical activity and unhealthy dietary practices thus, leading to obesity, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases and even diabetes. The doctors are the educated and aware part of the society yet their lifestyle and work habits have led them to suffer from NCDs. More researches are needed to sensitize the doctors about the gap between the knowledge and practice.