Comprehensive Assessment of Cardiovascular Risk Factors among Long-Haul Truck Drivers in South Brazil and its Impact on 3-year follow-up of Cardiovascular Events.

Abstract

To assess the impact of risk profile on the prevalence of cardiovascular events during a 3-year follow-up period. A prospective cohort study was conducted among long-haul truck drivers in Brazil. Clinical evaluation, physical measurements, blood biochemical parameters, ankle-brachial index, left ventricular hypertrophy and heart rate variability were assessed. Participants were followed up for three years to detect the incidence of major cardiovascular events. A significant proportion of drivers met the criteria for metabolic syndrome and had a high-risk score for cardiovascular events. Subclinical inflammation, vascular stiffness, left ventricular overload and increased cardiac sympathetic modulation were also highly prevalent. Years of profession, abdominal circumference, and confirmed diabetes mellitus as significant predictors of CVD risk. The findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions to improve the cardiovascular health of truck drivers and promote roadway safety.