Abstract

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Abstract
Keywords
Findings
Authors

Abstract

Changes in health behaviours (smoking, physical activity, alcohol consumption, and fruit and vegetable consumption) after diagnosis of chronic health conditions (heart disease, cancer, stroke, respiratory disease, and diabetes) were examined among Canadians aged 50 or older. Results from 12 years of longitudinal data from the Canadian National Population Health Survey indicated relatively modest changes in behaviour. Although significant decreases in smoking were observed among all groups except those with respiratory disease, at least 75% of smokers did not quit. No significant changes emerged in the percentage meeting physical activity recommendations, except those with diabetes, or in excessive alcohol consumption, except those with diabetes and respiratory disease. The percentage reporting the recommended minimum fruit and vegetable intake did not increase significantly among any group.

Keywords

Aged, cancer, diabetes, disease management, exercise, heart disease, lifestyle, middle age, nutrition, respiratory disease, secondary prevention, smoking cessation, stroke

Findings

Heart disease, cancer, stroke, respiratory disease and diabetes are among the leading causes of death in Canada. Worldwide, these chronic conditions account for 60% of all deaths. Since they are infl uenced by modifi able behaviours, they are considered largely preventable. For people with a chronic illness, adopting a healthier lifestyle, such as smoking cessation, increased physical activity, eliminating heavy alcohol consumption and improving diet, can extend longevity, reduce the recurrence of an event and enhance quality of life. [Full Text]

Authors

Jason T. Newsom (1-503-725-8588; newsomj@pdx.edu), Nathalie Huguet and Mark S. Kaplan are with Portland State University, Portland, Oregon. Pamela L. Ramage-Morin (1-613- 951-1760; pamela.ramage-morin@statcan.gc.ca) and Julie Bernier (1-613-951-4556; julie.bernier@statcan.gc.ca) are with the Health Analysis Division at Statistics Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0T6. Michael J. McCarthy is with the University of Cincinnati. Bentson H. McFarland is with Oregon Health and Science University.