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Review
. 2015;53(3):197-205.
doi: 10.2486/indhealth.2014-0156. Epub 2015 Feb 9.

Effects of vehicle-ride exposure on cervical pathology: a meta-analysis

Roger Kollock  1 , Kenneth Games, Alan E Wilson, JoEllen M Sefton
Affiliations
Review

Effects of vehicle-ride exposure on cervical pathology: a meta-analysis

Roger Kollock et al. Ind Health. 2015.

Abstract

Research to date on the effect vehicle-ride exposure has on the development of cervical pathologies in mounted Warfighters is conflicting. The purpose of this study was to determine if the literature suggests a definite effect of vehicle-ride exposure on cervical pathology. Databases were searched using multiple combinations of select terms. Twelve studies meeting the inclusion criteria were included in the meta-analysis. The results of the meta-analysis revealed that overall vehicle-ride exposure was likely to increase cervical pathology (p=0.01, odds ratio=1.59, 95% CI=1.16-2.17). Using vehicle type as a moderator it was found that vehicle-ride exposure in ground-based vehicles (p=0.01, odds ratio=2.33, 95% CI=1.41-3.85) and fixed-wing aircraft (p=0.01, odds ratio =1.59, 95% CI=1.13-2.23) were likely to increase cervical pathology. Using operator/other personnel moderator it was found that in the populations tested, fighter pilots or fighter jet weapons systems operators were more likely to develop a cervical pathology (p<0.001, odds ratio=1.78, 95% CI=1.26-2.50). The available studies indicate an increase in cervical pathology for personnel exposed to ground-based vehicles and fixed-wing aircraft.

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Figures

Fig. 1.
Fig. 1.
Outline of literature search and selection.
Fig. 2.
Fig. 2.
Funnel plot of included studies.
Fig. 3.
Fig. 3.
Forest plot of overall and moderated analyses. WSO: weapons systems operator; (*p<0.05).
Fig. 4.
Fig. 4.
Graph of odds ratio and log of time (hours) for the studies using a questionnaire.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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