[Health survey in Finnmark--health status and risk of cardiovascular diseases among fishermen. A survey performed within the Health and Inequality program in Finnmark]
Fishermen were compared with other males aged 30-62 for various risk factors associated with arteriosclerotic heart disease. The set of data originated from a population study in Finnmark County, Norway. Risk of infarction was higher among fishermen; they had significantly higher mean total cholesterol values, drank more coffee and less low fat milk, and smoked more cigarettes. The analyses revealed, however, a marked variation in risk profile by geographical region. A striking reduction in risk of infarction has been experienced among the male population of Finnmark during the last 15 years, with fishermen apparently lagging somewhat behind. The authors discuss possible explanations for this reduction, and preventive strategies relevant to fishermen.