Cumulative associations between midlife health behaviors and physical functioning in early old age: a 17-year prospective cohort study.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

To examine cumulative associations between midlife health behaviors and walking speed and upper-limb strength in early old age.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Whitehall II Study.

Participants

Individuals (mean age 49.1 ± 5.9 in 1991-93) with health behavior data for at least two of the three assessments (1991-93, 1997-99, 2002-04) and physical functioning measures in 2007-09 (mean age 65.9 ± 5.9) (N = 5,671).

Measurements

A trained nurse assessed walking speed and upper-limb strength. Unhealthy behaviors were defined as current or recent smoking, nonmoderate alcohol consumption (abstinence or heavy drinking), fruit and vegetable consumption less than twice per day, and physical inactivity (<1 h/wk of moderate and <1 h/wk of vigorous

SUBMITTER: Sabia S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4206608 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature