EHES Core measurements
EHES core measurements, which are expected to be included in every national HES are
- height, weight and waist circumference,
- blood pressure,
- non-fasting blood samples for total and HDL-cholesterol,
- fasting blood sample for glucose, and
- questionnaire items.
The description of the selection criteria for the measurements is given in the EHES Manual, Part A, Chapter 5.The detailed measurement protocols are described in the EHES Manual, Part B, Chapter 5.
Generally, all EHES core measurements provide indicators from major chronic diseases and their risk factors. These risk factors are largely preventable and treatable at both individual and community level.
Height, weight and waist circumference measure body composition. From height and weight, BMI, the measure used to define overweight and obesity, can be calculated. Obesity is a strong risk factor for hypertension, diabetes and osteoarthritis. It contributes to 10-13% of deaths in Europe.
Blood pressure, is a major modifiable risk factor of cardiovascular disease (CVD). CVD is the leading cause of disability in Europe. Blood pressure distribution is a strong indicator of the burden of hypertension in the population. The percentage of people with elevated blood pressure who are unaware of their condition varies from 10-60% between countries. This is an important indicator of the performance of the health care system.
The role of blood lipids composition is very similar with that of blood pressure.
Fasting blood glucose is an indicator of diabetes. There is indication that up to 40% of those with type 2 diabetes may be unaware of their condition. In the near future, it seems possible to replace fasting blood glucose measurement with the measurement of glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), which does not require fasting.
Questionnaire items are an essential part of the national HES. They will provide needed background and supporting information for the measurements. In the EHES, European Health Interview Survey (EHIS) questions are used when ever feasible.