What is it about?
Over the past few decades many expressed concerns regarding rising kidney health-related risks among Nepalese labour migrants in Gulf countries and Malaysia. Previous studies have highlighted poor lifestyles and work conditions among Nepalese migrants, which could potentially impact their kidney health. This qualitative study aims to explore the lifestyles and work environment of returnee Nepalese migrants who were diagnosed with kidney health problems. Interviews were carried out with 12 male returnee migrants, with half having worked abroad for at least a decade.
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Why is it important?
Our analysis yielded seven themes: (a) living and lifestyles; (b) work environment; (c) exposure to pollutants; (d) Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) experience; (e) use of painkillers and healthcare; (f) medical expenses for CKD patients; and (g) pre-departure training. This study indicates that Nepalese migrants face numerous challenges, including limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities, poor diets, exposure to occupational hazards, and overuse of pain medication, all of which may contribute to an increased risk of kidney disease.
Perspectives
We believe the Government of Nepal must improve pre-departure and on-arrival orientation programmes focusing on kidney health-related topics, including the necessary advocacy at the country of destination to provide access to basic services. These improvement may encourage migrants to adopt healthy lifestyles and safe working environments, as well as help sensitise migrants to their kidney health risks. More support for labour organisations and trade unions in host countries is also vital.
Prof. Edwin R van Teijlingen
Bournemouth University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Exploring lifestyles, work environment and health care experience of Nepalese returnee labour migrants diagnosed with kidney-related problems, PLOS One, August 2024, PLOS,
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0309203.
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