Evaluation of Fitness Levels and Associated Factors among Public Health Pharmacy Staff in Perlis.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70672/3yfn4383Keywords:
Cardiovascular endurance, healthcare workers, muscle endurance, muscle strength, physical fitness.Abstract
Background: Maintaining good fitness levels is vital for healthcare workers due to the physical and mental demands of their roles. This study assessed the fitness levels of pharmacy staff at public health clinics in Perlis and explored associated factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from April to June 2024 among pharmacy staff in 13 public health facilities in Perlis. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, fitness levels (cardiovascular endurance, muscle strength, and muscle endurance), and mental health symptoms were collected using an English-language questionnaire and analysed with SPSS version 25.0. Results: Of the 72 participants (mean age 36.3 years, SD=7.04), most were Malay (95.8%), female (77.8%), and married (70.8%). Obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m²) was present in 11 participants (15.3%). Cardiovascular endurance was rated average or above in 87.5% of participants, muscle strength in 55.6%, and muscle endurance in 73.6%. Overall, 37.5% were classified as physically fit. Exercising four to five times per week significantly increased the likelihood of being physically fit compared to those who did not exercise (AOR=17.29, p=0.030). Conclusion: A considerable proportion of pharmacy staff were not classified as physically fit, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. Regular exercise, particularly four to five times per week, was strongly associated with improved fitness levels.
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