Distribution of Cardiovascular Modifiable Risk Factors in a Corporate Wellness Program: A Case Study of Occupational Cardiology in the Ferrari Company.

Abstract

Introduction: Cardiovascular (CV) diseases are the leading cause of mortality worldwide, and preventive strategies are increasingly focusing on early detection and management of risk factors. Corporate Wellness Programs (CWPs) in workplaces play a crucial role in the primary prevention of chronic non-communicable diseases, especially for early CV modifiable risk detection and management in apparently healthy individuals.

Aim: This study explores the prevalence and age-related distribution of CV modifiable risk factors in a large cohort of Ferrari car manufacturer employees evaluated through a CWP.

Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted among 1992 employees participating for the first time in the "Ferrari Formula Benessere" CWP in Maranello, Italy, throughout 2023. The program included a comprehensive medical evaluation, personal and family history, anthropometric measurements, blood testing, and blood pressure evaluation. Data on demographic characteristics, health behaviors, and CV modifiable risk factors were collected and analyzed.

Results: Most participants were males (82%), with a mean age of 40 ± 9 years. Findings revealed a notable prevalence of CV modifiable risk factors: 17.3% were active smokers, 43.2% reported physical inactivity, 34.8% were classified as overweight (body mass index ≥ 25), and 7.7% as obese. Early screening identified a significant proportion of employees with elevated CV risk according to the SCORE2 algorithm: 39% were categorized as having a high CV risk and 2% at a very high CV risk. In addition, 6.4% had impaired fasting glycemia (100-125 mg/dL), 3.8% had dyslipidemia and 6.8% had high blood pressure (systolic blood pressure 140-159 mmHg): almost none of them (98%) were on treatment.

Conclusions: The "Ferrari Formula Benessere" identified a wide range of CV modifiable risk factors in a cohort of apparently healthy employees, not routinely screened, highlighting the essential role of CWPs in the early detection and management of CV health risks. These findings underscore the importance of integrating regular health assessments into corporate wellness strategies to mitigate CV risk and promote overall employee well-being.