Predictors of Nutritional Health Risks Among Midwives in the Context of Midwifery Work

Specific occupational factors among midwives—such as shift work, night duties, and significant professional responsibilities—are likely to contribute to a high perceived workload within this group. These factors may increase the risk of nutrition-related health issues, including abnormal body weight and disordered eating behaviors. Despite growing awareness of these concerns, research examining the predictors of nutrition-related health risks among midwives remains limited. The present study aimed to assess the prevalence and key occupational predictors of such risks in this population. A cross-sectional preliminary study was conducted among 703 midwives in Poland. Disordered eating behaviors were evaluated using the Eating Attitudes Test-26 (EAT-26), while workload intensity was measured with the Quantitative Workload Inventory (QWI). Additional data on BMI classification, work experience, and night shift history were collected. A Classification and Regression Tree (C&RT) model was used to identify key predictors of nutritional health risk, defined as meeting at least one of the following criteria: abnormal BMI, EAT-26 score > 20, behavioral indicators of disordered eating, or a history of treatment for an eating disorder. Of the participants, 56.76% (n = 399) were classified as being at nutritional health risk. The most salient predictors included work experience (more than 17.5 years), duration of night shift work, and QWI score. Among midwives with over 17.5 years of experience, both night shift duration and QWI score were significant predictors. For those with 17.5 years or less of experience, QWI score was the strongest predictor. Night shift work alone was not a significant factor in the model. Work experience and workload intensity are key predictors of nutrition-related health risks among midwives. Targeted workplace interventions—including schedule optimization, stress management programs, and nutrition-focused education—may help mitigate these risks. Further research is warranted to explore the long-term health consequences of occupational stress in this professional group.