PREVALENCE OF CARDIO-VASCULAR DISEASE (CVD) RISK FACTORS AMONG AUTO-RICKSHAW DRIVERS

Abstract

Research question: What is the prevalence of some cardio-vascular disease (CVD) risk factors among auto-rickshaw drivers (ARDs) working in Nagpur city of India? Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2007 to December 2008 at the auto-rickshaw stand of Nagpur railway station. Out of total 6000 auto-rickshaw drivers (ARDs) of Nagpur city, 296 were studied. Results: Mean age of ARDs was 41.70±9.05 years. Their mean length of occupation was 17 years and average daily working was 11½ hours. 40.20% subjects had habit of tobacco chewing; while 35.14% were smokers and 34.12% were alcohol consumers. Only 16.89% subjects were engaged in regular physical exercise. 27.36% subjects had ‘moderate’ or ‘severe’ self reported stress. Mean weight of these auto-rickshaw drivers was 58.59±9.25 kg; while their mean body mass index (BMI) was 21.95±3.48 kg/m². 14.86% subjects were overweight and another 3.38% had obesity. 37.16% subjects had pre-hypertension; while 104 (35.14%) subjects had hypertension. 4.73% of the ARDs also had a family history of hypertension. Conclusions: As the prevalence of various CVD risk factors is high; there is an urgent need of regular health check-ups and appropriate preventive and promotive interventions among these auto-rickshaw drivers.