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Effect of Practicing Health Behaviors on Unmet Needs among Patients with Chronic Diseases: A Longitudinal Study

Year: 2021

Type: article

Abstract: With the growing prevalence of chronic diseases, the proportion of unmet needs is increasing. In this study, we investigated the effect of practicing health behaviors on unmet needs among patients with chronic diseases, using data from the Korea Health Panel Survey conducted between 2014–2017. Participants (n = 4069) aged 19 or older, with at least one chronic disease (hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, or arthrosis) and with existing follow up data were selected. Health behaviors combined three variables: not presently smoking, not belonging to high-risk drinking group, and indulging in moderate- or high-intensity exercise. Those who met all three criteria were classified as the practicing health behaviors group. Generalized Estimating Equation analysis was performed to consider correlated data within a subject. Of the participants, 23.9% practiced health behaviors. Participants who did not practice health behaviors were significantly more likely to have unmet needs compared with those who did (OR: 1.24, 95% CI: 1.10–1.39). Further research would be needed to verify the impact of practicing health behavior on unmet needs.

Source: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18157977

Authors: Bich-Na Jang, Hwi-Jun Kim, Bo-Ram Kim, Seonyeong Woo, Woo-Jin Lee, Eun-Cheol Park

Institutions: Yonsei University, Republic of Korea Army

Language: English

Topic: Health and Wellbeing Research

Subfield: General Health Professions

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,484