900 of 10,000 KSRTC, BMTC bus drivers found to have risk factors for heart attack

BENGALURU: The Jayadeva Institute of Cardiology conducted a study following reports of daily heart attack cases. The study focused on KSRTC and BMTC drivers and conductors, which revealed alarming results. Out of 10,000 personnel tested, 900 were found to have high-risk factors for heart disease.

The high-risk factors identified include:

Pre-existing heart conditions

Smoking

Alcohol consumption

Diabetes

Obesity

High blood pressure

Genetic predisposition

Mental stress

Sleep deprivation

Dr Ravindra Nath, director of Jayadeva Hospital, said, “We are conducting regular health checks for all KSRTC employees for three days a week at Jayadeva Hospital. When we analyzed that 1/3 employees were drivers. It means there are 900-plus drivers. 20 pc employees have diabetes, 25 pc are suffering from hypertension, and 40 pc -50 pc have alcohol habits and other habits. The facts came to light during the annual health checkup. We have prescribed medicines to control health issues. The research is ongoing”.

Experts recommend that KSRTC and BMTC drivers undergo regular health checkups, avoid eating outside food and prioritize their health. The transport department is also urged to focus on the health and well-being of its employees to prevent such incidents.