Abstract
Introduction: While literature exists about mineworkers with chronic conditions, there is a scarcity of literature regarding the experiences of mineworkers diagnosed with chronic conditions. Mineworkers with chronic conditions are expected to be physically fit to perform optimally at work. Furthermore, they are expected to enhance their lifestyles to effectively manage and control their chronic conditions. The mining environment can impact negatively on their chronic condition. Methods: Qualitative, descriptive phenomenological approach where thirteen mineworkers were purposively sampled, individually interviewed face-to-face until data saturation was reached. The researcher followed Giorgi’s four steps for analysing data. ATLAS.ti 26 software was employed to thematically analyse collected data. Consensus discussion regarding themes and sub-themes was reached between with the researcher and the independent coder. Results: Using Health Belief Model as a theoretical framework, the findings demonstrated that the mineworkers diagnosed with chronic conditions had varying experiences after discovering their diagnoses. Four themes and various sub-themes emerged. The themes were related to debilitating emotions and effects of chronic condition on the livelihood of the employees, disruption of the social and economic environment for mineworkers, the paradox of medication: alleviation vs hazard and unfavourable organisational climate. Conclusion: The experiences of mineworkers indicated fear and uncertainty after being diagnosed. Support should be provided to mineworkers diagnosed with chronic conditions by the organisation, their colleagues and families while adjusting to the new lifestyle. Keywords: chronic condition; hypertension; diabetes mellitus; phenomenology; mineworkers.