Dissertation committee:
Γιάννης Τούντας Καθηγητής, Βικτωρία Καλαποθάκη Ομότιμη Καθηγήτρια, Βασιλική Μπενέτου, Επίκουρη Καθηγήτρια
Summary:
Background: The aim of the present study was to assess trends in health-related
behaviors and cardiovascular risk factors in Greece during the current
financial crisis.
Methods: Data from three surveys, conducted in 2006 (n=1,005), in 2008
(n=1,490) and in 2011 (n=1,008) were analyzed. All data were self-reported.
Physical activity levels were assessed with the International Physical Activity
Questionnaire.
Results: The prevalence of smoking in Greece decreased from 42.6% to 38.1%
between 2008-2011 (p=0.026). The prevalence of smoking decreased within the
higher and lower socioeconomic groups, but not within the middle group. The
prevalence of high levels of physical activity increased among Greek adults
(from 21.9% to 31.7%, p<0.001) with the exception of the highest SES. The
consumption of fruit and vegetables per day significantly decreased only among
those of lower SES during the crisis (p=0.055). Prevalence of overweight and
obesity did not show significant trends.
Conclusions: During the economic crisis, fruit and vegetable consumption
alarmingly decreased, especially among those of lower SES, whereas trends in
smoking prevalence and physical activity levels seem favorable. These results
indicate that the economic crisis may have had an impact on cardiovascular risk
factors, especially among the most disadvantaged groups.
Keywords:
Physical activity, Smoking, Obesity, Vegetables, Recession
