Early detection of renal disease among truck drivers through organized screening

Trucking industry is the backbone of trade and economy and in India, truck drivers are occupationally faced with various challenges. Several risk factors including stress and abnormal lifestyle predisposes this group to non-communicable disease and chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the major threats. This study was carried out to evaluate the prevalence and risk factors of chronic kidney disease.

The present cross-sectional study was carried out as a population-based screening programme among 3,200 truck drivers in Tamil Nadu for a period of 1 year in 2018. A structured proforma was used to obtain information regarding the diabetic and hypertensive status. Body mass index was calculated and blood pressure was measured using standard equipments. Urine dipstick method was used to detect the presence of albumin and glucose in the urine.

The mean age of the participants was 40.3 years. Overweight and obesity was seen in 49.9% of the participants, while elevated blood pressure was observed in 41.1%. About 12.4% of the participants were known hypertensives on medications. Albuminuria was present in 19.7% of the participants. Albuminuria was significantly associated with elevated blood pressure, high body mass index and elevated random blood sugars (P < 0.0001). In 83.7% of the participants, random blood sugar was elevated beyond 200 mg/dl.

The screening programme can be enhanced when coupled with an awareness campaign, with due focus on culturally relevant information delivered by trained health educators in the native language, so as to bring about adequate education through effective communication.