Related Experiment Videos
Exercise testing of young, apparently healthy professional drivers
M Ugljesić1, K Belkić, D Bosković
1Ambulatory Occupational Health Center, Belgrade, Yugoslavia.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health
|June 1, 1996
Summary
Professional drivers show a higher incidence of diastolic hypertensive reactions during exercise testing compared to a reference group. This finding suggests potential cardiovascular risks, including ischemic heart disease and hypertension, warranting further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Occupational Health
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Professional drivers represent a unique occupational cohort.
- Cardiovascular health in this group is crucial for public safety.
- Previous research on exercise responses in professional drivers is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the cardiovascular responses of young, healthy professional drivers during exercise.
- To compare exercise test results between professional drivers and a non-driver reference group.
Main Methods:
- A randomized bicycle exercise test was administered to 42 male professional drivers (aged 20-40) and 30 building workers.
- Maximal exercise levels, blood pressure, heart rate, and double product were measured.
- Diastolic hypertensive reactions were specifically monitored.
Main Results:
- Professional drivers exhibited a significantly lower mean maximal exercise level (139 W vs. 155 W).
- Higher mean diastolic blood pressure (97 mm Hg vs. 79 mm Hg) and double product were observed in drivers.
- Diastolic hypertensive reactions (>115 mm Hg) occurred in 31% of drivers versus 10% of referents (P < 0.05).
- Eight drivers with hypertensive reactions had multiple cardiac risk factors.
Conclusions:
- A high prevalence of diastolic hypertensive reactions to exercise was noted in professional drivers.
- These reactions may indicate an increased risk for ischemic heart disease and hypertension.
- Further exercise testing and potentially more sensitive cardiovascular assessments are recommended for professional drivers due to traffic safety concerns.