Assessment of Non-Communicable Disease Risk Factors Among Civil Servants in Abuja, FCT

The rising burden of non-communicable diseases among working-age adults in Nigeria's urban centres is driven by modifiable lifestyle risk factors that are amenable to workplace health promotion. This study assessed the prevalence of NCD risk factors among civil servants at selected federal ministries in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 300 civil servants from three federal ministries, recruited through stratified sampling of Grade levels 7 to 16. Structured questionnaires assessed physical activity levels using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, dietary patterns, tobacco and alcohol use, and stress perception. Anthropometric measurements and blood pressure were taken. Random blood glucose was measured using a glucometer. Results showed that physical inactivity was present in 61.3 percent of respondents, overweight or obesity in 54.7 percent, hypertension in 27.3 percent, and elevated random blood glucose in 11.3 percent. Tobacco use was reported by 14.0 percent and harmful alcohol use by 18.7 percent. Increased BMI was significantly associated with hypertension (OR 3.4; p < 0.001) and elevated blood glucose (OR 2.8; p < 0.001). Female civil servants showed higher overweight rates, while males showed higher tobacco and alcohol use rates. The study recommends a workplace health promotion programme at federal ministries encompassing physical activity, dietary counselling, and NCD screening, coordinated by the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation. Keywords: non-communicable diseases, NCD risk factors, civil servants, Abuja, workplace health