Noncommunicable diseases risk and protective factors in adults with and without health insurance: A cross-sectional study in Riyadh city.

BACKGROUND

Despite the key role of health insurance in healthcare access and utilization, there is limited understanding of its impact on preventive health engagement and lifestyle behaviors in Saudi Arabia. This study aims to address this gap by examining the association between insurance coverage, health-related behaviors, and access to healthcare services.

METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional study was conducted utilizing a structured questionnaire administered through face-to-face interviews. Adults aged ≥18 years residing in Riyadh were recruited, with data collected on their health insurance status. The questionnaire included sociodemographic information, prevalence of noncommunicable disease (NCD) risk factors, and perceptions regarding the connection between health insurance and obesity. Data analysis was performed using descriptive and inferential statistics with SPSS version 26.

RESULTS

Among participants, 52.2% reported having health insurance. No significant associations were observed between insurance status and unhealthy behaviors; however, insured individuals were more likely to use nutritional counseling services (P = 0.025). Additionally, 61.3% of participants believed that insurance coverage positively influences health behaviors. Employment status was significantly related to insurance coverage: retirees had lower odds of being insured (OR = 0.352, 95% CI: 0.158-0.784, P = 0.011), while full-time employees were less likely to be uninsured (OR = 0.484, 95% CI: 0.259-0.903, P = 0.023).

CONCLUSION

This study found that insurance improves access to preventive services but does not significantly change behaviors like smoking or exercise. The unemployed and retirees are less insured, highlighting the need for more inclusive policies and behavioral interventions to reduce NCDs in Saudi Arabia.