Characteristics of the sample at baseline in 1994 (Q1) and follow-up in 2007 (Q2).

All covariates, except educational level, were coded so that lower values indicated a more positive outcome. Minus signs indicate a better outcome at Q2 with respect to prospective change and a better outcome for women with respect to gender differences.Notes: *paMen = 100, women = 113.bMen = 95, women = 125.cInterquartile range (i.e., the difference between Q3–Q1) calculated for variables with more than two values.dAnalysed using Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test.eDichotomous variables analysed using Pearson’s χ2. All other variables analysed using Mann-Whitney U-test.