RESUMO
Background: The less affluent and educated members of the society tend to be less prone to healthy lifestyles. Aim: To describe feeding habits, nutrition, quality of life and working conditions of construction workers comparing two recent surveys, namely the 2009 Chilean National Health Survey (NHS) and the 2010 Work, Employment and Health Survey (WEH). Material and Methods: One hundred ninety male workers aged 43 ± 13 years were surveyed about feeding habits during working days and weekends, smoking and usual physical activity. Weight, height and blood pressure were also measured. Results: In 2010, 82% of workers were overweight or obese compared with 67% rates in the NHS of 2009. The rate of sedentariness was 86% compared with 84% in the NHS of 2009 and 93% in the WEH 2010. Forty one percent smoked and those aged less than 25 years consumed more calories than the other age groups. There was a high intake of carbonated beverages, bread, salted and red meats and a low consumption of fruits, vegetables, legumes and fish. Seventy seven percent had a meal at midafternoon and only 25% ate supper. Lunch had a fixed schedule, was considered good and usually was prepared by a family member. The level of satisfaction with work, family life and life in general was high. The satisfaction with health and physical condition was lower. Conclusions: The unhealthy lifestyles of these construction workers should alert health authorities.