Determining the factors that affect self-reported quality of life among Turkish seafarers

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study is to determine the quality of life (QOL) of Turkish seafarers and its relationship with the factors affecting it. Materials and methods: A total of 103 Turkish seafarers completed an “Employee Assessment Form” and “WHOQOL-BREF” Scale. Results: The majority of the seafarers who participated in the study were males (98%) of the age group 36–48 (44%). Among the seamen, 58% smoked and 42% used alcohol. The rate of exercising was 29% and the mean body mass index was 27.63 ± 3.78. Average scores of WHOQOL-BREF sub-dimension are 15.99 ± 1.83 for physical (PHY), 15.77 ± 2.26 for psychological (PSY), 15.50 ± 2.73 for social (SOC), 14.17 ± 2.25 for environmental domain (ENV), and finally 14.18 ± 2.13 for ENV-TR. Conclusions: According to the results of this study, it is possible to argue that Turkish seafarers have a weak awareness towards improving their health and QOL in their working life and that they need assistance in improving their QOL, especially in psychological and social aspects.