Introduction:
Emerging evidence suggests that air pollution might be a new environmental factor contributing to a higher prevalence of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and its associated risk factors. Occupational auto-rickshaw drivers are a group particularly exposed to elevated air pollution levels. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the occurrence of kidney dysfunction and major CKD risk factors such as hypertension, Diabetes Mellitus, and obesity among male auto-rickshaw drivers in Northern India.
Methods:
This research targeted male auto-rickshaw drivers aged 18 and above, who had driven for at least a year. Their physical characteristics (height, weight, waist size) and blood pressure were measured. A structured questionnaire collected data on medical history, substance use, and work background. Blood and urine tests were conducted to assess parameters like hemoglobin, serum creatinine, uric acid, and protein in urine. The CKD-EPI equation was employed to calculate estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR).
Results:
Total of 2600 male auto-rickshaws and taxi drivers were enrolled in the study. The average age was 39.79 years, and 46.8% were overweight or obese. Hypertension was diagnosed in 28.8%, of which 24.6% were newly diagnosed with hypertension, and 6.3% had diabetes, of which 2.5% had new cases of diabetes. Tobacco and alcohol use were prevalent, with 40.25% using tobacco and 28.9% consuming alcohol. Hyperuricemia was present in 29.7% and anemia in 9.5% of the drivers. 5.4% had low eGFR (eGFR<60 ml/min), and 17.8% had proteinuria.
Conclusions:
The study identifies significant renal dysfunction and related health risks among male auto-rickshaw drivers in North India, highlighting the need for targeted health interventions. Occupational exposure and environmental factors, such as air pollution, may contribute to the increased risk of CKD in this group.
I have no potential conflict of interest to disclose.
I did not use generative AI and AI-assisted technologies in the writing process.