Investigating the health profiles of Hong Kong Chinese: Results of a cluster analysis

Aim. The aim of this study was to identify the health profile of a group of Hong Kong Chinese adults. Background. People were on the alert about their current health status and health has become the most valuable asset to many Hong Kong people. Methods. A descriptive correlational survey was conducted during the period December 2003 - September 2004 in six districts in Hong Kong; 702 Chinese adults aged 18-64 completed a structured questionnaire. Results. Cluster analysis revealed two profiles groups on their attitude towards social health, sexual behaviour, mental health, diet/nutrition, smoking/substance use, health knowledge and physical activity. Conclusions. Health data describing the health status of adults can be structured into a profile reflecting the characteristics of the target population under study. The findings showed that subjects in both clusters face two serious health issues: engage in little physical activity and possess poor knowledge about health. This finding does suggest that nurses can apply our understanding of these health profiles and to develop interventions that improve their health. Relevance to clinical practice. This finding does suggest that nurses can apply our understanding of these health profiles and to develop interventions that improve their health.