The pre-adoption demographic and health profiles of men participating in a programme of men's health delivered in English Premier League football clubs

Abstract

Objectives: To investigate the pre-adoption demographic and health profiles of men participating in a programme of men's health delivered in English Premier League (EPL) football clubs.

Study design: A series of match day and programmed health promotion interventions held in EPL clubs (n = 16), including awareness-raising activity days for supporters, weekly healthy lifestyle classes, and outreach activities targeted in local communities. Interventions were delivered at football stadia, club training venues and community facilities. Interventions were run by health trainers who received specific training in men's health and behavioural change activities.

Methods: Participants completed self-report measures for demographics and lifestyle behaviours, including physical activity, consumption of fruit and vegetables, smoking, height, weight, consumption of alcohol and perception of health. Measurement occurred before the interventions. Data were independently analysed and used to assess adoption of the interventions and pre-intervention health profiles of participants.

Results: Nine hundred and forty-six men adopted the interventions, but the mode of engagement led to variations in the sample size. Demographics showed that 89% (n = 783/875) were aged 18-44 years and 78% (n = 685/878) were White British. In a subsample, the percentages of men failing to meet health guidelines were as follows: physical activity, 79% (n = 351/440); consumption of fruit and vegetables, 82% (n = 315/380); smoking, 28% (n = 103/373); high body weight, 67% (n = 245/358); and high alcohol consumption, 40% (n = 112/279). Sixty-nine percent of men (n = 242/348) considered that they had no health problems, but 67% (n = 208/310) presented with three or more risk factors for coronary heart disease. Over 40% (n = 125/307) reported never going to see their general practitioner.

Conclusion: A national programme of men's health promotion interventions delivered in EPL football clubs was effective in reaching target audiences. Interventions were predominantly adopted by men not meeting health guidelines.