Predictive Factors of Non-Communicable Disease Prevention Behaviors Based on the “3E-2S” Principle among Village Health Volunteers in Nong Waeng Subdistrict, Lahan Sai District, Buriram Province

Abstract

The study was a cross-sectional analytical study. The objectives were to investigate the level of health literacy and prevention behaviors for non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and to examine the influence of personal factors and health literacy on these prevention behaviors among Village Health Volunteers (VHVs) in Nong Waeng Subdistrict, Lahan Sai District, Buriram Province. A sample of 142 VHVs was selected using a simple random sampling method. The data were collected using a questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression analysis. The results showed that most participants were female (89.44%), with an average age of 50.97 years (SD = 9.80). Most were Buddhist (99.30%) and married (78.87%). The highest level of education attained was primary school (50%), and the primary occupation was farming (69.72%). The average monthly income was 6,331.69 THB (SD = 4,739.67). Additionally, 77.46% of the participants had no NCDs, and the average body mass index (BMI) was 25.32 kg/m². (SD = 4.07). Health literacy was at a very good level (83.80%), while NCD prevention behavior was at a fair level (85.21%). The variables that could significantly predict NCD prevention behavior were male gender (β = -5.950, p = 0.017), age (β = 0.164, p = 0.039), occupation (β = – 9.504, p = 0.009), health literacy (β = 1.060, p = 0.029). All independent variables explained 8.6% of the variation in the NCD prevention behavior score. Therefore, appropriate health-promoting activities should be designed and organized for VHVs. These activities must emphasize their involvement in decision-making rather than merely receiving information. This approach will encourage them to adopt proper health behaviors and serve as role models for the community.