Prolapsed cervical intervertebral disc in male professional drivers in Denmark, 1981-1990. A longitudinal study of hospitalizations.

STUDY DESIGN

This study of professional drivers is a part of a longitudinal record linkage study of all economically active men in Denmark, identified on January 1, 1981. Information about the main occupation was identified in 1980. The cohort was followed for first hospitalization with prolapsed cervical intervertebral disc until December 31, 1990.

OBJECTIVES

To examine the risk of prolapsed cervical intervertebral disc in all Danish professional drivers, and to analyze exposures of the male drivers in a sample of all Danish male drivers.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Only a few studies on occupation and prolapsed cervical intervertebral disc have been published. These studies suggest that professional driving may be a risk factor for development of prolapsed cervical intervertebral disc. Drivers are exposed to whole-body vibrations, heavy lifting, and a sedentary position. Other potential exposures are accelerations and decelerations and whiplash accidents. Such exposure may be involved in the causation of prolapsed cervical intervertebral disc.

METHODS

A standardized hospitalization ratio was calculated for each subgroup of drivers using all economically active people as the standard. Additional exposure information was extracted from a national survey on work environment.

RESULTS

Almost all men in occupations involving professional driving had a statistically significant elevated risk of being hospitalized with prolapsed cervical intervertebral disc.

CONCLUSIONS

Professional driving is a risk factor for prolapsed cervical intervertebral disc.