Cardio-cerebrovascular disease risk factors among male night-shift workers in South Korea: a comparative analysis of drivers and security guards.

Abstract

Objectives: This study investigates the prevalence of cardio-cerebrovascular disease (CCVD) risk factors among male night-shift workers in South Korea, focusing on drivers and security guards, who constitute a significant portion of the older worker population.

Material and methods: Using data from the 2016 nationwide workers' special health examination, the authors analyzed health habits, past illnesses, and body measurements related to CCVDs among male drivers (N = 8862) and security guards (N = 7156) in their 60s.

Results: The age of the drivers and security guards were mean ± standard deviation 63.19±2.62 years and 64.93±2.72 years, respectively. The drivers exhibit unhealthier lifestyle habits and a higher prevalence of diabetes, dyslipidemia, and obesity compared to security guards. Additionally, drivers have unhealthier body measurement values and a higher prevalence of metabolic syndrome (OR = 1.844, 95% CI: 1.722-1.974, p < 0.001).

Conclusions: These findings underscore the heightened risk of CCVD among drivers compared to security guards among older night-shift workers in South Korea, highlighting the need for tailored health policies for this demographic. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2025;38(3):296-308.