Epidemiology of venous insufficiency in an occupational population

Abstract

Aim: A cross sectional study of the prevalence and risk factors of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) in a South European occupational population was performed.

Methods: Over a 7-month period a questionnaire (CVI symptoms, general data and life style habits) was administrated to 1604 consecutive females (73.3%) and 586 consecutive males (26.7%). An oriented clinical examination was then performed. Subjects were classified into 4 groups: asymptomatic, light, moderate and severe CVI. Univariate and multivariate analysis were used.

Results: Mean age 38.8+/-11.6 years (range 15-65). The prevalence of CVI all classes confounded was 51.4% (62.3% in women and 21.8% in men); the prevalence of moderate and severe CVI was 10.4% (12.1% in female and 6.3% in male). Age (Odds Ratio (OR): 1.93, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.55-3.53), female sex (OR: 2.34, 95% CI: 1.62-2.30), obesity (kg/m(2)) (OR:1.11, 95% CI: 1.07-1.15) and familial history of CVI (OR: 2.80, 95% CI: 2.02-3.89) were risks factors of moderate and severe CVI. The comparison extended to the whole group of CVI added other risk factors: history of leg injury, pregnancy; a sitting posture at work. Unexpectedly smoking had a protective effect but only in the female group for the last one.

Conclusion: CVI is an important medical problem concern in this population. Some of the risk factors like obesity and standing position at work may benefit from preventive measures.