Prevalence, incidence, and occupational risk markers of dyslipidemia in Peruvian workers

Abstract

Introduction

Dyslipidemias are a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. In Peru, nutritional transition and lifestyle changes may be contributing to an increase in the incidence of these metabolic disorders, particularly among the working population.

Objective

To determine the incidence of dyslipidemias and evaluate associated occupational factors in Peruvian workers.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using electronic medical records from 4,200 workers attending an occupational health clinic between 2013 and 2022. Incidence rates of hypertriglyceridemia, hypercholesterolemia, and combined dyslipidemia were calculated. Specific occupational factors (type of work, sitting time, and night shift work) were analyzed using Cox regression models adjusted for age (with splines) and sex.

Results

The incidence of hypercholesterolemia (87.22 cases per 1,000 person-years; 95% CI: 79.99–94.45) was significantly higher than that of hypertriglyceridemia (65.71 cases per 1,000 person-years; 95% CI: 59.71–71.72). Combined dyslipidemia showed an incidence of 48.28 cases per 1,000 person-years (95% CI: 43.60–52.97). Workers in social services had a higher risk of developing dyslipidemias (aHR: 1.78; 95% CI: 1.27–2.49) compared to office workers. Prolonged sitting time (>4 h) was significantly associated with an increased risk of hypertriglyceridemia (aHR: 1.28; 95% CI: 1.05–1.56) and combined dyslipidemia (aHR: 1.42; 95% CI: 1.15–1.76).

Conclusions

The high incidence of dyslipidemias—particularly hypercholesterolemia—may reflect the increasing consumption of ultra-processed foods and the ongoing nutritional transition in the Peruvian population. Occupational factors play a crucial role in the development of these metabolic disorders, highlighting the need for specific preventive strategies in the workplace.