Age differences in alcohol drinking patterns among Norwegian and German hospital doctors--a study based on national samples

"Do as we say, not as we do?" the lifestyle behaviours of hospital doctors working in Ireland: a national cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

This study was conducted to assess the lifestyle behaviours of a national sample of hospital doctors working in Ireland. We also sought to compare the prevalence of these behaviours in doctors to the general Irish population.

METHODS

This was a national cross-sectional study of a randomised sample of hospital doctors working in Irish publicly funded hospitals and residential institutions. The final cohort consisted of 1749 doctors (response rate of 55%). All hospital specialties were represented except radiology. The following data were collected: sociodemographic data (age, sex), work grade (consultant, trainee) average hours worked over a two-week period, specialty and lifestyle behaviours (smoking, alcohol, physical activity). Lifestyle data for the general population was provided by the Healthy Ireland 2015 study.

RESULTS

Half of participants were men (50.5%). Just over half of the sample were consultants (54.3%), with 45.7% being trainees. 9.3% of doctors surveyed were smokers, 88.4% consumed alcohol and 24.5% were physically inactive. Trainees were more likely to smoke and be physically inactive when compared to consultants. Smoking rates amongst doctors were lower than the general population (9.3% -v- 23%). Doctors were more likely to consume alcohol than the general population (88.4% -v- 71.7%) but less likely to engage in binge drinking on a typical drinking occasion (12.8% -v- 39.5%). Doctors were more compliant than the general population with minimum exercise targets (75.5% -v- 70.5%), but less likely to engage in health enhancing physical activity (19.1% -v- 33%).

CONCLUSIONS

While the prevalence of health behaviours amongst hospital doctors in Ireland compares favourably to the general population, their alcohol consumption and engagement in health enhancing physical activity suggest room for improvement. Continued health promotion and education on the importance of personal health behaviours is essential.

GPs' attitudes on a healthy lifestyle: a survey of GPs in Flanders

BACKGROUND

Patients often consider health professionals to be role models for leading a healthy lifestyle but no data is available on tobacco, alcohol, or substance use among GPs in Flanders (northern Belgium).

AIM

To estimate the prevalence of smoking, alcohol, and substance use among GPs, in order to determine factors that influence these habits and to elucidate GPs' attitudes toward a healthy lifestyle.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Online survey-based study in Flanders, Belgium.

METHOD

Sociodemographic data and individual risk behaviour were collected by an anonymous self-administered questionnaire. GPs and family doctors in training were sent an email request between 1 April and 31 May 2011.

RESULTS

Of 626 responders, 57% were male. The mean age was 45 years. Eight per cent (n = 50) were current smokers. Independent risk factors for smoking were: working alone, hazardous alcohol consumption, and smoking cannabis. Fourteen per cent (n = 86) consumed alcohol daily and 12% (n = 73) admitted at least one episode of binge drinking per month. Being male, cigarette smoking, cannabis use, and long working hours were associated with an increased likelihood of hazardous drinking. Sixteen per cent (n = 101) had used sleeping pills and 12% (n = 72) had used minor opiates as painkillers in the year before the study. Two-thirds (64%, n = 399) of GPs said they would be reluctant to seek medical help if they were misusing drugs or alcohol.

CONCLUSION

Smoking is uncommon in Flemish GPs; in contrast, alcohol consumption is high. GPs who misuse substances will not seek help readily.