The intensity of health behaviors and health satisfaction among physically active paramedics and professional firefighters

Abstract

Purpose: Physical activity positively influences lifestyle changes in society. This study aimed to examine the relationship
between the intensity of health behaviours, physical activity, and health satisfaction among paramedics and professional
firefighters.
Methods: The study included 172 participants aged 19–50 years. Physically active paramedics (P1) comprised 32.6% of
the sample, professional firefighters (F1) 31.4%, non-exercising paramedics (P2) 25%, and non-exercising firefighters (F2)
11%. The standardized Health Behaviour Inventory (HBI) questionnaire and a proprietary questionnaire were used. Both
parametric and non-parametric statistical analyses were employed.
Results: Significant differences were found in the intensity of health behaviours (IHB) among the participants within the IHB
point score, correct eating habits (CEH), preventive behaviours (PB), positive mental attitude (PMA), and health practices
(HP) (P< .001 for the F-test in each case; ω²= .65–.74). The highest overall intensity of health behaviours (IHB) point score
(82.54) was observed among physically active paramedics (P1), who also achieved better results in preventive behaviours
(PB), positive mental attitude (PMA), and health practices (HP) compared to inactive firefighters (F2) (P< .001 for the t-test
in each case; d= .51–.59). A significant overall variation was confirmed (P< .001 for the H-test; E²R= .11–.18, strong effect)
between the Health Behaviour Inventory (HBI) and its categories and participants' health satisfaction. The respondents
with the highest IHB point scores, correct eating habits (CEH), preventive behaviours (PB), positive mental attitude (PMA),
health practices (HP), were more satisfied with their health (D) compared to those with lower health behaviour scores (A,
B, C) (rg= -.40 to -.83).
Conclusions: The demonstrated relationship between the intensity of health behaviours, physical activity and health
satisfaction underscores the need to further promote these behaviours to enhance overall quality of life and improve safety
in the professional practice of paramedics and firefighters.