OBJECTIVE: This study analyzed a worksite-based cardiovascular risk assessment offered to soldiers aged 40 and older to identify unrecognized cardiovascular risk and evaluate compliance with instructions to follow up for further evaluation. METHODS: Participants had fasting blood tests, waist circumference and blood pressure measurement and a carotid artery duplex scan performed at their worksite. A healthcare professional discussed the participants' results with them and, if indicated, recommended follow up within the following one month. RESULTS: Seventy-six (46%) of the 163 eligible soldiers agreed to participate. Twenty-nine (38%) of the 76 participants were instructed to follow up for elevated blood pressure, glucose, or lipids. Only 7 of 29 (24%) complied with follow-up instructions. CONCLUSION: Voluntary worksite-based interventions can effectively identify soldiers with unmanaged cardiovascular risk factors, but a more aggressive follow-up strategy should be used to ensure these soldiers receive indicated medical intervention.
OBJECTIVE: This study analyzed a worksite-based cardiovascular risk assessment offered to soldiers aged 40 and older to identify unrecognized cardiovascular risk and evaluate compliance with instructions to follow up for further evaluation. METHODS:Participants had fasting blood tests, waist circumference and blood pressure measurement and a carotid artery duplex scan performed at their worksite. A healthcare professional discussed the participants' results with them and, if indicated, recommended follow up within the following one month. RESULTS: Seventy-six (46%) of the 163 eligible soldiers agreed to participate. Twenty-nine (38%) of the 76 participants were instructed to follow up for elevated blood pressure, glucose, or lipids. Only 7 of 29 (24%) complied with follow-up instructions. CONCLUSION: Voluntary worksite-based interventions can effectively identify soldiers with unmanaged cardiovascular risk factors, but a more aggressive follow-up strategy should be used to ensure these soldiers receive indicated medical intervention.