Work-related diseases in public transport drivers

Introduction
An increased frequency of selected work-related diseases has been described in the group of public transport drivers, such as ischaemic heart disease, arterial hypertension, spinalgia syndrome, gastric and duodenal ulcer It may be associated with a high level of stress at work, mostly due to being responsible for the safety of passengers in heavy urban traffic, time pressure, possible conflicts with passengers, specific, almost awkward body posture at work and working during different time of day and night. Aim of the study was evaluation frequency of selected work-related diseases in the group of public transport drivers in city of Lodz..It was a first survey in Poland related to this occupational group.

Methods
Comprehensive questionnaire survey icomprised of 90 questions ntended to detect risk factors of ischaemic heart disease, arterial hypertension, spinalgia syndrome, gastric and duodenal ulcer.

Results
Questionnaire surveyy was performed in a group of 1190 males - public transport drivers. Average of age in the group was 46 +/-7.8 years. Period of work as public transport driver was on average 18.2 +/-8.9 years. Most of drivers (75.4%) worked in two shifts system (morning shift and afternoon shift). Most prevalent diseases in this group were as follows: spinalgia syndrome- 51.3%, arterial hypertension – 33.9% and gastric and duodenal ulcers 15.2%. High level of stress at work – 65.1%, low physical activity – 60.0%, smoking – 50.0% and unhealthy dietary habits – 40.0% are the most common risk factors of work-related diseases in the group of public transport drivers.

Discussion
The results of the study indicate a necessity for undertaking preventive steps in this group to reduce the level of stress, increase physical activity and fitness, eliminate tobacco smoking habit and promote healthy diet. Those steps are necessary to improve health of drivers and safety of public transport .