EFFECTIVENESS OF BEHAVIOR CHANGE COMMUNICATION ON KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICES REGARDING LIFESTYLE DISORDERS AMONG ADULTS IN A RURAL COMMUNITY, TAMIL NADU

*Dr. N. Thilagavathi, Mrs. Kezia Margaret

ABSTRACT

Lifestyle disorders are a growing public health concern, particularly in rural populations. The Global Burden of Disease Study data show that dietary habits, tobacco and alcohol use, blood sugar, obesity, and low physical activity are major metabolic and behavioral risk factors that lead to non-communicable diseases (lifestyle disorders) in India. Lifestyle behaviors are the most crucial determinant and lie at the root of many chronic diseases, causing higher disease burden and premature mortality worldwide. Objectives: To assess the effectiveness of Behavior Change Communication on knowledge and practice regarding lifestyle disorders among adults in the selected village, Erode. Methods: A quantitative research approach with a pre-experimental one-group pretest–posttest design was adopted. A total of 50 adults were selected using convenience sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire to assess knowledge and a checklist to assess practice. Following the pretest, participants received a BCC intervention comprising group health education and role play. The posttest was conducted using the same tools. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including the paired t-test. Results: The findings revealed that the pretest knowledge and practice levels were inadequate to moderate among participants. After the BCC intervention, there was a significant improvement in both knowledge scores. The calculated paired t value (2.54) was higher than the table value (2.00) at the 0.05 level of significance, indicating that the intervention was effective. Conclusion: The study concluded that Behavior Change Communication is an effective intervention to enhance knowledge and promote healthy practices related to lifestyle disorders. Regular implementation of such programs can help in reducing the risk of lifestyle diseases in rural communities.

Keywords: Behavior Change Communication, Lifestyle Disorders, Knowledge, Practice, Adults.