Middle-aged men before and after disability pension. Health screening profile with special emphasis on alcohol consumption.

A total of 5,950 male Malmö residents (from five cohorts, 1926-30) were health screened on two occasions, with an interval of 4-8 years. Disability pensions were granted to 215, of whom 123 were screened both before and after being pensioned. Those 123 constitute the study group reported on here. Among answers to the questionnaire, back and joint pain were the most common complaints mentioned. However, the most striking distinction between the study group and controls was the values of gamma-GT (gamma glutamyltransferase), indicating overconsumption of alcohol in the group of prospective pensioners. Complaints concerning the back were also an outstanding feature of those belonging to the highest deciles of gamma-GT after--but not before--the disability pension had been granted.