Kirsten S Freund1, Jørgen Lous. 1. Aarhus Universitet, Forskningsenheden for Almen Medicin. kirsten.freund@dadlnet.dk
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: The study presents the results of a questionnaire screening of 20-44-year-old patients as introduction to a preventive intervention study in general practice. The purpose was to identify those with most problems or lack of resources and unhealthy lifestyle. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In a cross-sectional study of the 20-44-year-old patients at 27 general practitioners, 2056 completed a questionnaire about resources, lifestyle, and family situation. The 30% with seven or more problems out of 33 possible (n = 625) were offered randomisation with a view to intervention. The answers are described and analysed comparing the two groups by OR and logistic regression. RESULTS: The four most important answers to find persons with more than seven problems were in women: difficulties in finding solutions, lack of security, not good self rated health, and difficulties in handling children. In men the most important answers were: lack of security, no confidant in the family, feeling extremely stressed, and lack of exercise. A little more than two thirds of the persons with many problems could be found among those with problems in two out of the four questions. DISCUSSION: Important characteristics among the 30% with most problems or lack of resources were low self-esteem, personal strain, and lack of security. These uncovered basic needs are considered essential barriers to health promoting self-care behaviour. By focusing on this, general practice might contribute to bridge the gap between the healthy and unhealthy.
INTRODUCTION: The study presents the results of a questionnaire screening of 20-44-year-old patients as introduction to a preventive intervention study in general practice. The purpose was to identify those with most problems or lack of resources and unhealthy lifestyle. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In a cross-sectional study of the 20-44-year-old patients at 27 general practitioners, 2056 completed a questionnaire about resources, lifestyle, and family situation. The 30% with seven or more problems out of 33 possible (n = 625) were offered randomisation with a view to intervention. The answers are described and analysed comparing the two groups by OR and logistic regression. RESULTS: The four most important answers to find persons with more than seven problems were in women: difficulties in finding solutions, lack of security, not good self rated health, and difficulties in handling children. In men the most important answers were: lack of security, no confidant in the family, feeling extremely stressed, and lack of exercise. A little more than two thirds of the persons with many problems could be found among those with problems in two out of the four questions. DISCUSSION: Important characteristics among the 30% with most problems or lack of resources were low self-esteem, personal strain, and lack of security. These uncovered basic needs are considered essential barriers to health promoting self-care behaviour. By focusing on this, general practice might contribute to bridge the gap between the healthy and unhealthy.