Self-rated health and risk factors for metabolic syndrome among middle-aged men.
OBJECTIVE
To examine lifestyle and clinical risk factors for metabolic syndrome (MBO) and compare their significance between levels of self-rated health among middle-aged men.


METHODS
A cross-sectional baseline study.


METHODS
273 men, aged 40, living in Helsinki, Finland.


METHODS
Postal questionnaires and health examinations by public health nurses were used in data collection. Statistical differences between groups of self-rated health and risk factors were analyzed by chi-square tests.


RESULTS
Of all the respondents, 55% rated their health as good and 45% as average. Two thirds were overweight or obese, and 35% had waist-hip ratio more than 100 cm. Approximately 43% had diastolic blood pressure greater than 90 mmHg. Over half of the men smoked daily, and 28% used alcohol excessively.


CONCLUSIONS
The men in this sample were found to be at high risk of developing MBO. The results underscore the importance of understanding the contradiction that exists between subjective and objective health ratings. Public health nurses are in a key position to educate men on how to use simple measurements to objectively assess their risk factors and, thus, potentially reduce their risk of developing diabetes, heart attack, or stroke.
Näslindh-Ylispangar
Anita
A
Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Helsinki, Kauriintie 3G49, 00740 Helsinki 74, Finland. anita.ylispangar@kolumbus.fi
Sihvonen
Marja
M
Vanhanen
Hannu
H
Kekki
Pertti
P
D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005387:Finland; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D008297:Male; D024821:Metabolic Syndrome / Q000517:prevention & control*; D008875:Middle Aged; D011637:Public Health Nursing; D012307:Risk Factors