Modifiable Coronary Artery Disease Risk Factors Among Airline Pilots

Introduction: Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) continues to be the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in developed countries. It is of particular concern in the aviation industry since it can result in sudden incapacitation. Moreover, it is the leading cause of pilot grounding. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of modifiable CAD risk factors among Gulf air pilots in Bahrain. Method: All the pilots attending the Gulf Air clinic for their routine medical (253 pilots) were asked to fill an anonymous self administered questionnaire and were examined for weight, height and blood pressure. In addition past medical history and laboratory results were recorded. The CAD risk status was assessed using the Framingham score sheets. Results: The prevalence of hypertension and diabetes mellitus were low while half of the pilots were overweight or obese. As for the other CAD risk factors, smoking, high triglyceride levels, hypercholesterolemia, and not performing regular exercise the prevalence rates were 26.1%, 43.6%, 7.1% and 17.1%, respectively. 6.3% of the pilots had a calculated CAD risk acceptable for their age while 8.1% and 85.6% had a higher and lower risk, respectively. Conclusion: Many pilots were found to be having high rates of CAD risk factors. Well structured primary and secondary preventive programs for pilots like smoking cessation, modifying dietary habits and promoting regular exercise should be initiated. An evaluation of the recommended preventive programs should follow.