Effects of regular health practices on subjective evaluation of health.

Abstract

The effects of Breslow's seven health practices on health were examined. The Today Health Index (THI), a questionnaire for self-evaluation of physical and mental health, was applied to male workers of a private company as well as their wives. The subjects resided in the suburbs of Tokyo and the average ages of the males and females were 41.5 and 38.4 years, respectively. Statistical results were obtained using Mann-Whitney U-test, analysis of covariance, and Hayashi's quantification theory I. A statistically significant decrease in the THI scale scores among subjects observing six or more health practices when compared with those observing three or less was demonstrated in vague complaints and irritability in males, and in respiration in females. In males, the THI scale scores of vague complaints, respiration, and the mouth and anus significantly decreased by sleeping well. Those of irritability and irregularity of life decreased by not smoking and those of vague complaints and irritability decreased by not eating between meals. In females, the THI scale scores of vague complaints, eye and skin, and the mouth and anus significantly decreased by exercising regularly. Those of irregularity of life decreased by not smoking. Those of respiration decreased by good weight control. Those of respiration and the mouth and anus decreased by not eating between meals. Exercising regularly in females was a good predictor of vague complaints using multi-variate analysis adjusted for age. Subjective evaluation of health improved by Breslow's recommended health practices.