Exploring Biokineticists' Role in the Early Detection and Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases in Rural South Africa: A Qualitative Study
1
Biokinetics, Recreation and Sport Science, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, South Africa
2
SAMRC/Wits DPHRU, Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
3
Exercise Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
4
Human Development and Health, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
Popul. Med. 2026;8(Supplement Supplement 1):
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
Non-communicable diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular disease are increasing in South Africa, particularly in rural areas where many remain undiagnosed. Biokineticists, experts in clinical exercise, are ideally suited to help detect and prevent these diseases early. However, they’re largely absent from public healthcare, and their potential in rural primary care is underused. This study sought to understand biokineticists’ views on their current and future roles in screening for NCD risk factors and promoting health in rural South Africa.
METHODS:
This qualitative cross-sectional study involved in-depth interviews with ten biokineticists practising in rural and public healthcare settings across South Africa. A semi-structured interview guide guided discussions on screening practices, NCD prevention and management. Data analysis followed Braun and Clarke’s six-phase approach using deductive and inductive coding techniques. This method revealed key themes related to biokinetics practice, service delivery barriers and opportunities for integrating NCD detection and prevention strategies.
RESULTS:
The study found that Biokineticists in rural areas are well-positioned to conduct community screenings and identify individuals at risk of non-communicable diseases early. This early identification allows for timely implementation of tailored exercise interventions. However, challenges include limited recognition in existing health policies, hindering their integration into public health systems, and financial barriers since Biokinetics services often require payment per consultation, posing a challenge for low-income populations. Despite these constraints, participants recognised the potential for interprofessional collaboration to tackle NCDs and stressed the importance of integrating Biokinetics into primary care settings to improve health outcomes in underserved rural communities.
CONCLUSIONS:
Biokineticists can significantly help prevent and promote NCD prevention in rural South Africa. Increasing their visibility and integrating them into public health policy and care teams can improve early detection and intervention for vulnerable populations.
Non-communicable diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular disease are increasing in South Africa, particularly in rural areas where many remain undiagnosed. Biokineticists, experts in clinical exercise, are ideally suited to help detect and prevent these diseases early. However, they’re largely absent from public healthcare, and their potential in rural primary care is underused. This study sought to understand biokineticists’ views on their current and future roles in screening for NCD risk factors and promoting health in rural South Africa.
METHODS:
This qualitative cross-sectional study involved in-depth interviews with ten biokineticists practising in rural and public healthcare settings across South Africa. A semi-structured interview guide guided discussions on screening practices, NCD prevention and management. Data analysis followed Braun and Clarke’s six-phase approach using deductive and inductive coding techniques. This method revealed key themes related to biokinetics practice, service delivery barriers and opportunities for integrating NCD detection and prevention strategies.
RESULTS:
The study found that Biokineticists in rural areas are well-positioned to conduct community screenings and identify individuals at risk of non-communicable diseases early. This early identification allows for timely implementation of tailored exercise interventions. However, challenges include limited recognition in existing health policies, hindering their integration into public health systems, and financial barriers since Biokinetics services often require payment per consultation, posing a challenge for low-income populations. Despite these constraints, participants recognised the potential for interprofessional collaboration to tackle NCDs and stressed the importance of integrating Biokinetics into primary care settings to improve health outcomes in underserved rural communities.
CONCLUSIONS:
Biokineticists can significantly help prevent and promote NCD prevention in rural South Africa. Increasing their visibility and integrating them into public health policy and care teams can improve early detection and intervention for vulnerable populations.
| eISSN: | 2654-1459 |
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