Assessment of Nutritional Status and Perceived Stress Level among the Female Health Care Professionals

Healthcare professionals have several occupational risks compared to the rest of the population because of the specificity of their working conditions. Since the health of healthcare professionals affects their performances, self–care may be examined closely to improve the healthcare system. It has become common to feel stressed in modern times. Therefore, this study aimed to assess healthcare professionals' nutritional status and perceived stress levels, perform a survey that included dietary intake patterns, and assess stress levels using the Kohun PSS scale. This cross-sectional study was performed among healthcare professionals working at hospitals in Varanasi City. A total of 100 healthcare professionals were interviewed face to face by questionnaire and responded to on the online platform. The mean age of respondents was 26 years, and the mean BMI value of respondents was 22.3 kg/m2. It was stated that fifty per cent of participants (50.0%) regularly took two meals daily. Among them, only 36% regularly ate three meals a day. Sixty-six per cent of respondents take cereals in their daily diet. Percentage of regular green leafy vegetables: 27 respondents took green leafy vegetables regularly, 32% consumed fruits, 80% consumed sugar, and 45% consumed milk. 25% of respondents were enlightened that they were anemic, 20% were diagnosed with diabetes, and 7 % were dealing with other health problems like UTI, low appetite, regular back pain, migraine and heartburn condition. 57% were working more than 8 hours. 40 % of respondents were recognized as having high perceived stress levels. The irregular working conditions of health care professionals may affect their nutritional and health status. Keywords: Female Healthcare professionals, stress, perceived stress level