Risk factors for cardiovascular diseases in professional drivers

Abstract

Aim of the paper was to determine the presence of risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVD) such as arterial hypertension, hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia, overweight, smoking; and (ii) to analyze the link between the requirements of their job and the resources available to them. Materials and methods: A descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study was conducted involving 210 professional drivers who underwent a medical examination at the Institute for Occupational Health of the Republic of North Macedonia. The examination was done in order to assess their ability to drive a motor vehicle; they were also given a questionnaire to fill in so as to compare the requirements of the job and the resources available to them for doing their job. Results: One third of the respondents had increased levels of triglycerides, glycemia and cholesterol in their blood (33.3%, 28.1%, and 21.4%, respectively); almost half (44.2%) of them were active smokers. One third of the respondents (31.9%) were obese, with BMI >30 (kg/m2). The resources available to the professional drivers for doing their job exceed the requirements of the job and this situation has a protective effect on the occurrence of risk factors for CVD. Conclusion: The high prevalence of risk factors for CVD among professional drivers can lead to development of CVD and increased incidence thereof, which can negatively impact on their ability for safe driving. Hence the need for interventions to prevent these risk factors, including the need to invest in the resources available to professional drivers for doing their job.