PREVALENCE OF METABOLIC SYNDROME AND RELATED RISK FACTORS IN PROFESSIONAL DRIVERS IN WEST AZERBAIJAN PROVINCE, 2010-2012

Professional drivers are apparently more involved in metabolic syndrome (MetS)
and its complications due to their working conditions. The outcome may not only be harmful for drivers,
but also can be harmful to community as they play critical role in transportation and traffic sectors.
Occupational stresses, physical inactivity, prolonged working hours, and inappropriate dietary habits
have all been reported as contributors to health risk factors in drivers. The present research was carried
out to determine the prevalence of MetS among professional drivers in West Azerbaijan province in
Iran.
Materials & Methods: Medical documentation was the source of data for the reported study. It derived
from medical examinations of 10000 among long distance drivers in West Azerbaijan province applying
for driving license. The MetS was defined using International Diabetes Federation criteria.
Results: The average age of participants was 38.62±9.7 (20-74) years. The prevalence of MetS in
subjects was %33.7 (95%CI: 32.7-34.6). The presence of central obesity was more common than other
components %52.3 (95%CI: 51.4-53.2). The associations of MetS with BMI, age, and driving
experiences were significant in the logistic regression. By increasing BMI, age, and driving experiences
also odds ratio of MetS increased.
Conclusion: The study suggests that MetS has become a noteworthy health problem among West
Azerbaijan among long distance drivers. Based on these findings, it is recommended to consider training
programs, establish pertinent health regulations, and focus on the MetS complications in high risk group
to improve and maintain their quality of life and to promote their public health.