A behaviour risk factor survey in Jamaica - abstract

ABSTRACT

A population-based probability sample of 958 persons (454 males and 504 females) aged 15 - 49 years were surveyed in Jamaica in late 1993 for lifestyle and behaviour risk factors. Demographic characteristics of the total sample were comparable to those of the general population. The majority (60 percent) of persons visited a private doctor the last time that they were sick. Eighteen per cent of the women and 8 percent of the men were hypertensive while 4.8 percent of the women and 3.3 percent of the men were diabetic. Twenty-six per cent of the men and 8 percent of the women had never had their blood pressure taken. Among women, 40 percent had never had a Pap smear, 29 percent had never had a breast examination and 33 percent were over weight compared with 18 percent of men. Smoking cigarettes and marijuana was more common among men (36 percent) than women (11 percent) as was drinking alcohol and heavy alcohol use (30 percent of men, 9 percent of women). Injuries requiring medical attention in the past 5 years were reported by 40 percent of the men and 15 percent of the women. The majority of persons used a contraceptive method while 10 percent of adults were no sexually active. Significantly more men than women had had two or more sexual partners in the past (54 percent vs 17 percent) or reported ever having STD (29 percent vs 9 percent). Younger persons were more sexually active and more likely to have used a condom on the last occasion. Higher socioeconomic status and educational level generally had a more positive effect on health behaviour. This survey provides vital information relevant to planning health promotion compaigns and assessing their success (AU)