Cholesterol intervention in the workplace: successful integration with other risk reduction programs

1. Despite substantial progress in reducing cardiovascular disease in the United States, 52 million Americans with elevated cholesterol still require dietary intervention and another 12.7 million may require drug intervention. 2. Only one third of the population who need lipid management receive it; 40% of people who have seen a physician in the past 2 years have never been screened for cholesterol. Therefore, screening at the worksite may provide an opportunity for cholesterol awareness and follow up evaluation. 3. It is important to understand the different behavioral models which help motivate individuals to make lifestyle changes. Generally, a combination of these models can be used successfully at the worksite in promoting health behavior changes. 4. Because the employer benefits from health promotion programs, it should be an integral part of the occupational health nurse's role. The most successful programs offer information about making lifestyle changes and provide individual and group support.