Probl Hig Epidemiol 2014, 95(2): 352-357pl

Physical activity and nutritional habits of men at cardiovascular disease risk

Bożena Kiczorowska, Wioletta Samolińska

Zakład Bromatologii i Fizjologii Żywienia, Uniwersytet Przyrodniczy w Lublinie

Summary
Introduction. Rational nutrition is one of the main environmental factors with an impact on the human body. Supplemented with regular physical activity it can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Aim. The assessment of nutritional behaviors and of intensity, type and motivation for physical activity in men at cardiovascular disease risk.
Methods. The study included 189 men whose medical history qualified them for a high-risk group of the incidence of cardiovascular diseases. The study used a survey that included questions about diet and physical activity. Body mass index (BMI) was also determined.
Results. BMI increased with age. In more than a half of the studied group the calculated BMI indicated obesity. Proper distribution of meals throughout the day was declared by only 32% of the respondents. Most frequently consumed products were: mineral non-carbonated water, whole wheat bread, white bread, fruit and vegetable fats. About 43% of the respondents identified their daily physical activity as low. Regular training sessions were taken up by 34% of the respondents. In the study group, 53% of the men devoted about 1-3 hours per week to physical activity, 23% reserved 4-7 hours a week for sports training. The awareness of the threats associated with the risk of cardiovascular diseases was at a relatively high level. About 82% of the respondents declared knowledge of the associated diseases.
Conclusion. Although the majority of men had extensive knowledge of cardiovascular diseases and the role of proper nutrition and physical activity in their prevention, their health behaviors in this respect were not fully correct.

Key words:  man, health behavior, BMI, nutrition, physical activity