1Dr. Syed Aqeel Akbar Shah Gillani, 2Hassan Raza, 3Mohib Ali, 4Dr.Abdullah Khan, 5Mobeen Ali, 6Karam Chaudhary, 7Kashif Lodhi
1Facuality. Community medicine, BMC.
2PIMS
3PIMS
4BMC
5PIMS
6PIMS
7Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences. Università Politécnica delle Marche Via Brecce Bianche 10, 60131 Ancona (AN) Italy
ABSTRACT:
Background: Varicose vein disease is a common vascular disorder affecting individuals worldwide, with various occupational and lifestyle factors contributing to its prevalence. This study focuses on exploring the prevalence and associated risk factors of varicose vein disease specifically among traffic wardens in Lahore.
Aim: The aim of this cross-sectional study is to investigate the prevalence of varicose vein disease among traffic wardens in Lahore, Pakistan, and to identify the potential risk factors contributing to its occurrence within this occupational group.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among traffic wardens in Lahore, utilizing a structured questionnaire to collect data on demographics, occupational characteristics, lifestyle factors, and the presence of varicose veins. Physical examinations and Doppler ultrasound assessments were also performed to confirm the diagnosis of varicose veins and assess their severity.
Results: The study included a total of 120 traffic wardens. The prevalence of varicose vein disease among this population was found to be 67%. Factors such as prolonged standing hours, lack of regular exercise, obesity, and smoking were identified as significant risk factors associated with the development of varicose veins among traffic wardens. Additionally, age and duration of employment were also found to be correlated with the prevalence of varicose veins in this occupational group.
Conclusion: This study underscores the high prevalence of varicose vein disease among traffic wardens in Lahore and highlights the importance of addressing occupational and lifestyle-related risk factors to prevent its occurrence. Implementing strategies such as regular breaks during duty hours, promoting physical activity, and raising awareness about the detrimental effects of smoking and obesity may help mitigate the risk of varicose vein disease among traffic wardens.
Keywords: Varicose veins, Traffic wardens, Prevalence, Risk factors, Cross-sectional study, Lahore.