Employee perceptions of non-communicable diseases health risks, absenteeism and the role of organisational support in a South African pharmaceutical manufacturing company

by Philippe Jean-Luc Gradidge, Daleen Casteleijn, António Palmeira, Ralph Maddison, Catherine E. Draper

The growing prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in South African workers has been shown to be associated with absenteeism and increased risk of morbidity. Low-income workers living in urban settings are particularly vulnerable. Consultation with workers is crucial for understanding risks and identifying opportunities for intervention to promote health in the workplace. The purpose of this study was to examine South African pharmaceutical manufacturing workers’ perspectives of health risk factors and absenteeism, and to identify how they perceived a role for the organisation to initiate interventions to improve their health.

Five focus groups were conducted to capture 27 employees’ perspectives. The semi-structured focus group discussions were recorded and analysed using a thematic content analysis approach.

Participants indicated that they were aware of behavioural health risks such as prolonged sitting. They showed insight into strategies to prevent injuries and stay healthy, but also expressed dissatisfaction about the lack of organisational support, leading to stress and consequently absenteeism. Participants emphasized the responsibility of the organisation to support a range of health promoting strategies

The findings of this study are important for cultivating a tailored workplace intervention to reduce NCD risk factors in the pharmaceutical manufacturing workforce. It is vital that these be supported by leadership of the company through the provision of funding and the development of internal healthcare services.