Journal of Family and Community Medicine · Published 2026-07-01 · DOI 10.4103/jfcm.jfcm_145_26
Rustika Rustika, Suzy Indharty, Hasnida Hasnida, Desvi Y. Mukhtar, Nora V. Nasution, Elman Boy, Ristrini Ristrini, Joko Irianto, Jane K. Propiona, Iin Nurlinawati, Wahyu P. Nugraheni, Mohammad R. Akbar, Asep Kusnali
BACKGROUND: The Hajj pilgrimage demands optimal physical and psychological readiness because of various factors, such as the physical health conditions that could influence the stress experienced during the pilgrimage. This study’s aim was to analyze the association between comorbidity status and stress levels in Hajj pilgrims. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 5362 prospective Hajj pilgrims from North Sumatra Province for the 2024 Hajj season. Stress levels were measured using the Perceived Stress Scale-10 and categorized as mild stress or moderate-to-severe stress. Data on comorbidity and respondent characteristics were collected using a structured questionnaire. Bivariate analysis was performed using the Chi-square test, while multivariate analysis employed binary logistic regression. RESULTS: The prevalence of moderate-to-severe stress was higher in pilgrims with comorbidities. Multivariate analysis revealed that having one comorbidity (odds ratio (OR) =1.29; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.06–1.56) and two or more comorbidities (OR = 1.33; 95% CI: 1.04–1.71) was significantly associated with increased risk of stress. Of specific comorbidities, digestive disorders showed a trend toward increased stress risk (OR = 1.23; 95% CI: 0.97–1.56; P < 0.1). Ages 40–59 years and ≥60 years, as well as higher education, were associated with increased stress risk, while being married and engagement in moderate physical activity showed protective effect. CONCLUSION: Comorbidity status, in terms of both the number and type of comorbidities, is independently associated with increased stress risk in Hajj pilgrims. Health promotion programs should integrate a biopsychosocial approach paying particular attention to pilgrims with comorbid conditions.
Abstract from DOAJ. Public domain (CC0 1.0).
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Rustika, R., Indharty, S., Hasnida, H., et al. (2026). Comorbidity status and stress levels during the 2024 Hajj season: A Logistic regression analysis of Hajj pilgrims in North Sumatra. Journal of Family and Community Medicine. https://doi.org/10.4103/jfcm.jfcm_145_26