Evaluatie pilot Endogene Factoren

As a part of the project on the Local and National Monitor for Public Health several pilot studies were carried out in three Municipal Health Centres (GGDs). The first aim was to investigate the feasibility of a physical examination at the health centre in combination with a health interview (or postal survey). The second aim was to compare several endogenous factors (total- and HDL cholesterol, and glucose) measured at the health centre by means of a finger prick (capillary blood) and in a certified lab using whole venous blood. Feasibility The response to the postal survey varied between 27% and 43%. The cooperation between the health centres and the RIVM was very good. Unfortunately the devices used for blood measurements and the home trainer, used for the physical test, broke down a few times. Preparations for carrying out the pilot took a lot of time of the people at the health centre. The participants, who received the results of the physical tests along with a gift voucher, were enthusiastic about the pilot. Comparability Correlation between measurements from capillary blood and venous blood were found to be 0.86 for total- and HDL cholesterol and 0.62 for glucose. The measurements of total- and HDL cholesterol were significantly higher in capillary blood than in venous blood. The prevalence of hypercholesterolemia was twice as high in capillary blood compared with venous blood.ConclusionCombining an interview / postal survey with a physical examination is feasible. Measurements made in capillary blood are not comparable with those in a certified lab.