Physical inactivity and other health risks among Australian males in less-skilled occupations

J Occup Environ Med. 1999 Sep;41(9):794-8. doi: 10.1097/00043764-199909000-00011.

Abstract

Male workers in less-skilled occupations have higher rates of cardiovascular disease, compared with higher-skilled workers. A representative population sample of Australian male workers was used to compare physical activity levels and selected cardiovascular disease risk factors in less-skilled versus professional and skilled workers. Workers in the less-skilled occupational categories reported significantly more vigorous work and home-based activity than did those in the professional and skilled categories. In multivariate comparisons, cigarette smoking was the only factor that discriminated between the less-skilled versus the professional and skilled employees. Although worksites can potentially provide health-promoting physical activity options for higher-risk groups, our findings suggest that smoking and possibly overweight are risk factors that are more strongly present in less-skilled occupations.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Australia / epidemiology
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / epidemiology*
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / prevention & control
  • Exercise*
  • Humans
  • Leisure Activities
  • Logistic Models
  • Male
  • Occupations*
  • Odds Ratio
  • Risk Factors