Personalized approach to non-communicable disease prevention in the working population

Abstract

Introduction. Effective prevention of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) requires shifting from generalized advice to personalized interventions.

Aim. To develop and justify personalized approaches to NCD prevention for the working population, by identifying key behavioral predictors, focusing on the interplay between diet, physical activity, and social barriers. 

Materials and Methods. A mixed-methods study was conducted, integrating quantitative survey data (pre-pandemic baseline, N = 1252) and qualitative interviews with market employees in early January 2026 (n = 30). Statistical analysis included Odds Ratios (OR), Sensitivity (Se), Specificity (Sp), and Likelihood Ratios (LR).

Results. Individual Nutritional Control (INC) and Daily Physical Exercise (DPE) were identified as core markers of health engagement. DPE demonstrated exceptional diagnostic power in ruling out perceived physical inactivity (LR– 0.05, Positive Predictive Value, PPV 0.93). Absence of INC was associated with 4-fold higher odds of physical inactivity (OR 4.03; 95% CI 2.83–5.72). Qualitative data from 2026 revealed "preventive inertia" and a shift toward telemedicine and "proxy" family consultations under extreme environmental stress and power outages.

Conclusions. A personalized approach involves identifying "leading components," such as DPE, to catalyze broader lifestyle changes. Integration of tailored health coaching and workplace wellness programs is essential for sustainable NCD prevention.