Health risks and educational interests in an HMO

A health survey was randomly administered to 1000 members of a 250,000 member HMO to help develop education programs and establish baseline risks and interests among HMO members. The sample was found to have lower than average risks related to smoking, average risks for weight, and above average risks related to exercise compared to state and national reference standards. The highest level of interest was reported for exercise, followed by stress reduction, weight loss, and smoking cessation. The older age groups were less likely to report an interest in attending fitness programs. The more educated respondents were less likely to attend weight control and stress programs. Based on these results, strategies for increasing involvement in educational programs to reduce health risks are discussed.