Application of Health Communication Strategies in Managing Non-Communicable Diseases Among Civil Servants in Abuja, FCT

The increasing burden of non-communicable diseases among Nigeria's public sector workforce presents an urgent challenge for occupational health education practitioners. This study examined the application of health communication strategies in managing non-communicable diseases among civil servants in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory. A descriptive survey design was used, involving 240 civil servants from three federal ministries in Garki, Wuse, and Central Business District areas. Data were collected through a structured self-administered questionnaire covering exposure to health communication interventions, disease awareness, and self-management practices. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied. Results showed that hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and obesity were the most prevalent non-communicable conditions among respondents. Less than 40 percent of respondents had participated in a formal workplace health education programme within the preceding two years. Workers in ministries with active health desks demonstrated significantly better health self-management behaviours, including medication adherence and dietary modification. Interpersonal communication by health educators and brochure-based messaging were rated as the most effective channels. The study recommended that the Federal Civil Service Commission mandate structured health communication programmes in all federal institutions and engage qualified health educators in civil service wellness coordination. Keywords: health communication, non-communicable diseases, civil servants, Abuja, occupational health