Venous insufficiency in male workers with a standing profession. Part 1: epidemiology

Abstract

Background: Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) in the occupational population is often poorly recognized. The dimensions of this problem have never been thoroughly investigated in the Netherlands.

Objective: To study the epidemiology and risk factors of CVI in males with a standing position at work. To develop a simple diagnostic instrument for screening an (occupational) population for CVI.

Methods: 387 male workers with a standing profession were examined by means of a questionnaire, physical examination, Doppler ultrasound investigation, light reflection rheography and optical leg volume measurements.

Results: CVI was present in 29% of the subjects and correlated with age, weight and duration of standing work. Complaints of the legs were reported by 81% of the individuals with CVI but also by 63% of the persons without CVI. The questionnaire had a predictive value of 80% in detecting CVI.

Conclusion: CVI was a major problem because of the quantity (29%) and the accompanying complaints. Neither the questionnaire nor other investigative measures proved to be as efficient in diagnosing CVI as physical examination in combination with Doppler ultrasound investigation.