A Study to Assess the Prevalence and Risk Factors of Hypertension among the Truck Drivers of district Shivpuri, Madhya Pradesh, India

INTRODUCTION: Hypertension is one most common  non-communicable cardiovascular disease. It is the major risk factor for heart failure, coronary artery disease, chronic renal failure and cerebral vascular diseases. Hypertension has been found paramountly amongst long distance truck drivers. This could be due to the hectic nature of their job. AIM: The study was conducted to study the prevalence of hypertension among truck drivers of Shivpuri district of Madhya Pradesh and to study the associated risk of hypertension amongst them. MATERIALS AND METHOD: District Shivpuri of Madhya Pradesh has around 20 Truck operation unions all registered under which more than 1000 truck drivers are registered. Total 770 drivers were selected by using systematic random sampling. The present study was conducted from November 2022 to March 2023. Information regarding demographic profile and risk factors of hypertension were collected on pre-tested proforma. RESULTS: Out of total 770 truck drivers, prevalence of hypertension was found 45.6% including 15% self-reported and 30.6% detected in the study. Only about 7% of truckers who were pre-diagnosed had undergone treatment for a certain period of time. Highest prevalence of hypertension was reported in 40 to 49 years age group followed by 30 to 39 years. Hypertension was prevalent amongst the truck drivers who had been working for more than 10 years. Significant association found on assessing risk factors like lack of physical exercise, lack of proper sleep, high BMI, history of addiction. CONCLUSION: Hypertension was reported more in the age group and people who were in this profession for over 10 years. Age was found significantly associated with hypertension. Improper sleep, schedule, hectic routines, lack of proper nutrition, centric obesity, high BMI and addiction to tobacco and alcohol found significant risk factors for hypertension.