Use of the Standard Lifestyle Questionnaires for Specific Health Checkups and Specific Health Guidance

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the lifestyle habits of persons getting a specific health checkup using a “standard questionnaire” and characterize the lifestyle habits of those receiving specific health guidance. In addition, the effects of providing health guidance by presenting such characteristics are examined.

Methods: The results of a standard questionnaire conducted during specific health checkups between 2008 and 2016 at company A in Kumamoto Prefecture were tabulated to clarify the lifestyle habits characteristic of those receiving specific health guidance at company A. Those receiving specific health guidance in 2016 were randomly divided into two groups: the “presentation group” that was introduced to the characteristic lifestyle habits at the time of the health guidance and the “non-presentation group” that was not introduced to such habits. The “non-presentation group” was given conventional specific health guidance. The “presentation group” was introduced to the characteristic lifestyle habits through materials in addition to the conventional method, and they were instructed to promote lifestyle changes. The effects of specific health guidance based on the results of the standard questionnaire were evaluated by comparing the results of health checkups in 2017 with those in 2016.

Results: The characteristic lifestyle habits of those receiving specific health guidance at company A were “little physical activity,” “a habit of skipping breakfast,” and “fast eating.” When the specific health guidance was carried out by presenting materials on “skipping breakfast” and “fast eating,” the systolic blood pressure increased in the non-presentation group, while it decreased in the presentation group in 2017. The change was significantly different.

Conclusion: It is suggested that the effectiveness of guidance may be improved by analyzing a standard questionnaire conducted during specific health checkups to clarify the characteristics of the target population and implement specific health guidance based on the results.