Prevalence of hypertension and its socio demographic and occupational determinants among bus drivers in North Karnataka – A Cross sectional study

Background: Hypertension is an iceberg disease. It remains silent, being generally asymptomatic during most of its course. The nature of the profession puts bus drivers at risk of developing hypertension. Hence, there is a need to study the prevalence and risk factors associated with hypertension among bus drivers. Aim: To study the prevalence of hypertension and socio demographic and occupational factors associated with it among bus drivers of north Karnataka. Methods: Three hundred sixty five randomly selected study participants (Drivers) were interviewed personally by using pre-tested and validated structured questionnaire and detailed information regarding age, educational status, socio-economic status, type of family, marital status were collected. Two independent blood pressure readings were taken in sitting position and the mean value of each is calculated. Study participants with either systolic blood pressure ≥ 140 mm Hg or diastolic blood pressure ≥ 90 mm Hg were termed as hypertensive. Participants who were known hypertensive were also included in the study for calculating prevalence of hypertension. Results: The prevalence of hypertension among drivers was 23.8%. Hypertension was significantly associated with age, socioeconomic status, education, religion, duration of service and job satisfaction. Conclusion: Considering the high prevalence of hypertension among bus drivers, necessary preventive measures need to be promoted.