PURPOSE:

To evaluate the efficacy of the diet on plasma cholesterol level above 200 mg/dL and to relate these values to age and occupation at the CPFL (Electricity Supply Company).

METHODS:

The participants were divided into 3 different groups (A, B and C), according to total cholesterol (TC): < 200 mg/dL (A), > or = 200 mg/dL and < 239 mg/dL (B) and > or = 240 mg/dL (C). Between 1983 and 1991, 688 workers of the company between 21 and 60 years, underwent dosages of TC with diet orientation: those having TC > 200 mg/dL, were identified in groups B and C. In addition to that, the participants were grouped according to their functions at the company. The TC level was dosed by Huang's modified colorimetric method.

RESULTS:

The mean TC level was 206 mg/dL. The nondiet group presented mean TC of 168 +/- 22.9 mg/dL in 1983 and 192 +/- 27.4 mg/dL in 1991 significantly higher compared to the initial value. Groups B and C, under standard diet, presented mean TC levels of 218 +/- 11.2 mg/dL and 266 +/- 22.5 mg/dL in 1983, respectively, 211 +/- 25.2 mg/dL and 229 +/- 34.4 mg/dL in 1991, with a significant decrease over time (p < 0.0001). In the working status, the managers presented mean TC values significantly higher than other occupations.

CONCLUSION:

The mean TC level of 206 mg/dL is considered high for Brazilians, and the distribution curve is similar to the American. The response to the standard diet was efficient, decreasing the TC in workers with values > 200 g/dL. Managers presented higher TC levels in relation to other functions, in addition to older age and different job conditions.