Respiratory Morbidities And Associated Risk Factors Among Traffic Police Personnel: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Air pollution, largely driven by transportation emissions, poses significant health risks, including respiratory diseases, for individuals worldwide. Traffic police officers, who face prolonged exposure to vehicular emissions, are particularly vulnerable to respiratory morbidity. However, limited research exists on this topic, especially in regions like Hyderabad, India, known for poor air quality. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of respiratory morbidity among traffic police personnel in Hyderabad. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2021 to January 2023 among 258 traffic police personnel aged 25-58 years in Hyderabad. Data collection involved structured interviews using a questionnaire adapted from ATS DLD-78, lung function measurements via peak flow meter and spirometry, and assessment of environmental exposure using Air Quality Index data. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and logistic regression. Results: The study revealed a high prevalence of respiratory symptoms among traffic police personnel, with 32.5% reporting frequent respiratory complaints and 29.8% reporting chronic complaints. Lung function assessments indicated obstructive patterns in 28.7% of participants. Factors such as age over 35 years and exposure to areas with poor Air Quality Index showed statistically significant associations with respiratory morbidity. However, educational level, duration of exposure to traffic, smoking, and mask usage did not exhibit significant differences in respiratory morbidity. Conclusion: The study's findings underscore the increased risk of respiratory morbidity among traffic police officers due to prolonged exposure to vehicular emissions. Regular awareness sessions on personal protective equipment (PPE) and periodic health checkups are imperative to decrease health risks within this occupational group. Furthermore, rotating traffic police postings based on Air Quality Index rankings could help reduce exposure to pollutants and protect respiratory health. These interventions are crucial in addressing the significant burden of respiratory diseases among traffic police personnel in urban environments like Hyderabad.

Keywords

• police
• traffic
• breathing problems
• air pollution
• hyderabad
• aqi
• fev1