Development of a Model for Health Promotion, Prevention and Control of Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases with the Principles of Buddhism Discussion by Applying the Tools of 3Sor, 3Or and 1Nor Integrating Buddhist Principles

Abstract

This study aimed to develop and analyze a model for health promotion, prevention and control of
chronic non-communicable diseases with the principles of Buddhism discussion by applying the tools of
3Sor (pray, meditation, Buddhism discussion - Dhamma way), 3Or (food, exercise, emotion - Dhamma
way) and 1Nor (biological clock) integrating Buddhist principles. It was conducted with multi-phase
design. Samples were 402 individuals from the North, the Central, the South and the Northeast regions.
The tools were questionnaire and measurement questionnaire developed from the principles of 3Sor, 3Or,
and 1Nor with the principles of Buddhism discussion. Data were analyzed by exploratory factor analysis
(EFA) by principle component analysis. Results of studies revealed changes in health conditions after
participating in the Buddhism discussion for 3 months compared to those before the participation. It was
found that the blood pressure level of most samples (60%) decreased by an average of 7.5 mm Hg. The
waist circumference of 60% of samples decreased by an average of 2.50 inches. The weight of 70%
of samples decreased by an average of 3.20 kg. The blood sugar level of 70% of patients in the patient
group decreased on average by 2 mg/dl. In addition, the body mass index of 50% of samples decreased
by an average of 1.5 kg/m2 (p<0.05). Thus, applying the principles of Buddhism discussion using the
tools of 3Sor, 3Or, and 1Nor integrating Buddhist principles could promote health resulting in the prevention
of chronic non-communicable diseases. This model should be expanded to other groups and areas
with similar contexts.