Evaluation of cardiovascular risk factors in drivers of heavy vehicles in the South Khorasan ( 2009-2010)

Abstract

Background and Aim: Given the high prevalence of cardiovascular diseases in the community, identifying and controlling risk factors to these diseases, especially in high-risk groups is at assessing prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors in heavy vehicle drivers. Materials and Methods: This descriptive study was conducted in 2009-2010 on 400 drivers of heavy vehicles, who, after being justified and handing in their written content, were included in the study.Their height, weight, blood pressure, waist and hip circumferences were measured using standard methods. Then 5 ml of fasting blood was derived from the brachial vein of each to measure serum glucose and lipids. The collected data was analyzed by means of SPSS software and x2 statistical test at the significant level α≤0.05. Results: Mean age of the subjects was 37.95±10.23 years. Out of them, %57.75 were under 40. The education level of 68/52% was below diploma. Truck drivers constituted %60/75. The most common risk factors were: dyslipidemia (%61.5), overweight and obesity (39/95%), smoking (16.25%), hypertension (15.5%), Family history of premature heart disease (10.25%), and diabetes (4.5%). All the above risk factors were concomitant with age. Conclusion: Given the high prevalence of cardiac risk factors, especially dyslipidemia, obesity, hypertension, and smoking screening for cardiovascular risk factors in this group is requisite. Educational programs to increase the drivers' Knowledge, Performance, and attitude about heart disease.

Keywords

• Cardiovascular risk factors
• Drivers
• Prevalence