The Filipino seafarers' lived experience aboard international shipping vessels: A basis for health promotion intervention

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE. This study documented the Filipino seafarers' lived experiences related to their health conditions, access to available health services and facilities, satisfaction with these, and their coping mechanisms aboard international shipping vessels. METHOD. Descriptive phenomenology was used with 12 Filipino seafarers. In-depth interviews were done in an industrial clinic in Manila port area during their annual medical examinations. RESULTS. The most common health-related problems mentioned by informants from dry cargo bulk/tanker vessels were sexuallyytransmitted infections, hypertension, accidents, heart attack, and homesickness. Hypertension, back, knee, and muscle pains and liver enzymes elevations were frequently mentioned problems in luxury liners. Circumstances on board like unlimited amount of food servings, lack of control over food choices, and negative attitude of the cook were perceived to increase seafarers' vulnerability to lifestyle diseases. Loneliness seemed to have contributed to their propensity to engage in high-risk sex behaviors. Informants reported having access to health services and facilities on board as well as satisfaction with these. Gym facilities were seldom used because of work fatigue. Coping mechanisms included watching DVDs, singing karaoke, playing video games, listening to music, and fishing. CONCLUSION. Despite the reported access to health information and services, informants still reported occupational and lifestyleerelated diseases that were perceived to be associated with the work situation that requires appropriate health promotion strategies.