Study of socio-demographic factors and morbidity profile of traffic policemen in Solapur city of Maharashtra

Abstract

Background: The traffic policemen are engaged in controlling vehicular traffic and exposed to higher concentrations of air pollution as well as noise pollution daily. Hence they are at a risk of developing various health problems due to their occupation. Methods: The aim of study was to study socio-demographic characteristics and morbidity profile of traffic policemen. A cross sectional study was carried out on 114 traffic policemen form the traffic control branch of the city from the police headquarter of the city. History regarding symptoms experienced at the workplace, history of present illness, past history, personal history and family history was obtained and clinical examination was done. Statistical analysis was done with the help of percentages, chi-square test. Results: Majority (89.47%) of the traffic policemen were married. Nuclear family type was seen in majority (64.91%) of traffic policemen. Annoyance to noise (51.75%) and eye irritation (32.46%) were most common symptoms experienced at work place by the traffic policemen. Obesity was a major health problem in the study subjects (63.16%). Respiratory morbidity like URTI (14.91%) and chronic rhinitis (14.04%) were found significantly more in the traffic policemen. Conclusions: Annoyance to noise and eye irritation were most common symptoms experienced at work place by the traffic policemen. Respiratory morbidity like URTI, chronic rhinitis and chronic bronchitis were most common.