Health related quality of life and associated factors among waste collectors working in Hanoi urban environment company, 2017

Abstract

A cross-sectional study which aimed to describe health related quality of life (HRQoL) among waste collectors (WC) and associated facters, was conducted among 698 waste collectors from 2 branches of Hanoi urban environment company (URENCO). HRQoL was collected using SF-36v2 via direct interview, along with workers’ information on demographic and work characteristics. Multivariate regression was applied to examine factors associated with HRQoL. Results showed that the mean HRQoL was 72.9 ± 10.5. Factors related to reduced HRQoL included being female, with any chronic disease, any after-shift health symptom, at least 1 occupational injury, and longer years of service. Factors related to increased HRQoL was adequate income for a living. The moderate HRQoL of waste collectors was attributable to a variety of health problems. In order to improve HRQoL, URENCO should seek solutions for worker health promotion. Waste collectors should take initiative to protect their own health and frequently use personal protective equipment correctly.