Relationship Between Metabolic Syndrome and Work Ability Test Performance in Firefighters.

Abstract

The aim of the study was to investigate the association between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and occupational performance in firefighters. Using a cross-sectional study, 309 firefighters were systematically recruited to participate in this study. MetS was determined using physical measures and occupational performance was measured using a work ability test (WAT), which included six work-specific tasks. Data were analyzed using independent t tests, linear, logistic, and multinomial regressions. Firefighters with four risk factors were less likely to pass the rescue drag task (OR = 0.99, P = 0.032). Triglycerides were associated with the forcible entry task (β = 0.120, P = 0.049). Central obesity decreased the odds of firefighters passing the WAT ( P = 0.007), the step-up ( P = 0.004), charged hose drag and pull ( P = 0.026), equipment carry ( P = 0.007), and rescue drag ( P = 0.022) tasks. MetS was associated with poorer work performance, which was compounded as their number of risk factors increased.