Stroke morbidity in professional drivers in Denmark 1981-1990.

BACKGROUND Little has been published on the possible associations between professional driving and stroke although it is well documented from several countries that professional drivers have an increased risk of coronary heart disease. There are common aetiologic factors for coronary heart disease and stroke. The aim of the present study is to estimate the risk of stroke among professional drivers in 13 male and 4 female groups defined by employment status and industry. METHODS Cohorts of all gainfully employed 20-59 year old Danes were formed to compare Standardized Hospitalization Ratios (SHR) for stroke between occupational groups. The follow-up period was 10 years. RESULTS A consistent pattern of high risk was found for all groups of male drivers except removal men. The group 'All drivers' had an increased risk of stroke SHR = 130 for men (95% confidence interval [CI]: 123.6-137.5) and SHR = 148 for women (95% CI: 113.9-191.4). Standardization for employment status reduced the risks but they were still found to be statistically significantly increased: SHR = 114 for men (95% CI: 108.2-120.4) and SHR = 130 for women (95% CI: 100.0-168.0). CONCLUSIONS Professional driving is associated with an increased risk of stroke morbidity.