Health behaviors and health outcomes among construction workers in the United States, a longitudinal study

Background and Objectives

This study followed a cohort of construction workers in the US from their teens to middle age, examining the long-term effects of health behaviors on health outcomes.

Methods

Data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth, 1979 cohort (1979-2010), were used. Construction workers (n=1,409) were defined as those who were employed in construction for at least three years between 1979 and 2010. Health behaviors in the follow-up period were measured by a risky behavior index (RBI), including diet plans, physical exercise, and the use of tobacco, alcohol, marijuana, and cocaine. Health outcomes were measured by self-reported physical and mental health and doctor-diagnosed chronic conditions at the age of 40.

Results

Initial findings show that the construction cohort gained weight during the three decades of follow-up; the percentage of obese workers increased from 3.9% to 31.8%. Almost all workers in this cohort were involved in risky behaviors when they were teenagers. However, smoking tobacco and drinking heavily declined significantly in middle age. The RBI was strongly correlated with both physical and mental health. Among those with an RBI less than five, 82% reported their health was excellent or very good at age 40, compared to 56% for those with an RBI greater than 10. Similar patterns were found in mental health and chronic conditions.

Conclusions

The findings provide evidence that health behaviors of teens can affect their health at middle age. Intervention programs at worksites should support young workers to develop good health behaviors as early as possible.