J. Murie et al., IMPACT OF A HEALTH PROMOTION PROGRAM ON MULTIPLE RISK-FACTORS FOR CHD- A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION, Scottish Medical Journal, 39(1), 1994, pp. 12-16
Results are reported from a pilot study to evaluate an innovative heal
th promotion programme (Lanark Health Club), in a community where the
incidence of CHD is above average. The aim of the programme is to prov
ide multiple risk factor screening and interventions - including an ex
ercise programme - sited in the community and utilising existing resou
rces within primary care and the voluntary sector. Data were returned
by 54 respondents after six months' participation on the programme. Su
bjects' self-reported activity levels increased significantly over tim
e, and there were concomitant significant reductions in weight, SBP an
d DBP. Reduced levels of self-reported stress were associated with red
uctions in alcohol intake, and were greater in male subjects. When oth
er measures were controlled for stress reduction was significantly mor
e likely for those who also lost weight and exhibited a reduction in D
BP. Finally, participation in the Health Club appeared to result in ch
olesterol reduction, particularly for those with relatively high initi
al cholesterol levels. While this could reflect regression effects, it
is certainly worthy of more systematic examination.