A Study of Hypertension and its Sociodemographic Factors among Bus Conductors in North Karnataka

Background: Hypertension is one of the diseases of occupational origin. It is ranked fifth amongst the ten most important categories of occupational illness. The prevalence of hypertension increases when selected occupational groups are screened.

Objectives: To study the prevalence of hypertension among bus conductors and to determine the occupational and social factors associated with it.

Study design: A cross sectional Study.

Study participants: Bus Conductors (370 participants).

Materials & Method: A detailed pre tested and validated questionnaire was used to collect information on Social and Occupational risk factors for hypertension. Blood pressure was measured using mercury sphygmomanometer and the auscultatory method. In statistical analysis, summary figures like rates, percentages and chi-square test were used.

Results: The prevalence of hypertension was 14.8%.The upward trend in prevalence was observed with increase in age and the association was statistically significant. Prevalence of hypertension was gradually increased as the duration of service increased and it is highest among those (36.3%) whose duration of service in the department was more than 30 years.

Conclusion: The prevalence of hypertension among conductors was 14.8% which is similar to general population.