Abstract
Background This study was part of a major project studying the metabolic syndrome in Finnish men. The final sample composed of 273 (39%) men who voluntarily completed the Health Behaviour Questionnaire. Aims To identify key determinants of health behaviour and health beliefs in middle-aged men, and to analyse how they are associated with underlying health covariates. Methods A stepwise logistic regression model was used to estimate the adjusted odds of the outcome by socio-demographic, health-behaviour, health-belief and clinical factors. Findings Five models were developed: (1) use of medications, (2) alcohol consumption, (3) self-rated health status, (4) burnout, and (5) motivation to change unhealthy behaviours. Existing illness or injury and occupation had the strongest associations with medication use, in which industrial workers were more likely to use medications than office personnel. A positive association was found between alcohol counselling by family members and less use of alcohol. Lack of illness or injury, good dental health, and normal waist circumference had the strongest associations with perceived good health. Depression and insomnia were the most significant predictors for burnout. Men who exercised 4–7 times a week, or who used alcohol infrequently or not at all, were over two times more likely to be motivated than inactive men. Conclusions Many relevant predictors that were significantly associated with the selected key determinants of health behaviour and health beliefs of middle-aged men were found in this study. The promotion of regular physical activity and healthy lifestyles among middle-aged men is currently one of the most important priorities of preventive work in primary health care. More gender-specific studies are needed to obtain a deeper understanding regarding men’s health issues.
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