Health Survey of Monks Residing in Urban Areas: The Bangkok Noi Model
Issued Date
2024-01-01
Resource Type
eISSN
22288082
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-85208267297
Journal Title
Siriraj Medical Journal
Volume
76
Issue
11
Start Page
746
End Page
757
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Siriraj Medical Journal Vol.76 No.11 (2024) , 746-757
Suggested Citation
Ko-amornsup W., Siriussawakul A., Aosangdeekul K., Preedachitkul R., Srinonprasert V., Somnuke P., Muangpaisan W., Petchthai P., Kitnarong N. Health Survey of Monks Residing in Urban Areas: The Bangkok Noi Model. Siriraj Medical Journal Vol.76 No.11 (2024) , 746-757. 757. doi:10.33192/smj.v76i11.269296 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/20.500.14594/101997
Title
Health Survey of Monks Residing in Urban Areas: The Bangkok Noi Model
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Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of obesity and identify associated health problems and behaviors among monks residing in Bangkok Noi and its adjacent districts. Materials and Methods: Employing a cross-sectional design, this research incorporated self-report questionnaires and specialized health checkup programs at a university hospital. Eligible participants were monks aged 20 years or older, living permanently in temples within the Bangkok Noi District and its adjacent districts. Monks in short-term ordination were excluded. Data collection occurred between February 2022 and July 2023. Results: Out of 560 monks who participated by completing both the questionnaires and health examinations, the average age was 46.49±16.97 years. Most participants resided in the Taling Chan (35.4%) and Bangkok Noi (31.8%) districts. Significant health issues included non-communicable diseases, with dyslipidemia affecting 57.8% and obesity 44.2% of the cohort. Monks over the age of 50 exhibited a remarkably higher rate of multimorbidity (50.2%) than their younger counterparts (24.2%, p < 0.001, 95% CI 20.71–27.97). Dietary habits revealed that younger monks were more prone to consuming fried, sweet and instant foods (74.5%, p < 0.001, 95% CI 70.67–78.07). Moreover, a significant proportion of younger monks demonstrated proficient e-health literacy (74.2%, p < 0.001, 95% CI 70.37–77.78). Conclusion: The study highlights a high prevalence of obesity among monks in urban settings. There is a pressing need for tailored preventive interventions that integrate health promotion and lifestyle modifications through Dhamma and Vinaya teachings. The interventions should address the distinct needs of different age groups.