Research
Clinical Significance of Perceived Occupational Stress Influencing Body Mass And Osteopenia : A Pilot Study
Introduction: Studies demonstrating perceived occupational stress, obesity & osteopenia among industrial workers are very limited. This pilot study was conducted to analyze the inter-relationships, if any, between stress, obesity and osteopenia among industrial workers. Materials and Methods: All patients who attended the health camps aging from 18 years to 70 years of either sex were the subjects of the study. They were subjected to General Physical Examination along with measurement of anthropometric parameters (Body Mass Index, Waist to hip ratio) Blood pressure and Systemic examination. Perceived Stress Scale (4 point) accepted worldwide for assessment of Stress was given in the form of Clinical Questionnaire to the subjects. Blood samples from the patients were subjected to random blood sugar and lipid profile. Bone Scan was done to assess the Bone Density as a marker of Osteoporosis. Comparison of the parameters obtained were done using appropriate statistical methods. Correlations were done using Pearson’s correlation co-efficient. All statistical tests were conducted at 5% level of significance.Results: The Body Mass Index & Waist to Hip ratio correlated with osteopenia. The Obese persons had increasing osteopenia along with increased lipid profiles. Overweight persons had slight osteopenia along with normal lipid profile. Persons who were perceived to be under stress had poor control of Blood Sugar inspite of being treated with oral hypoglycaemic agents. Most of the subjects had high scores on perceived stress scale, high incidence of substance abuse, lack of knowledge regarding healthy diet & healthy lifestyle.Conclusion: Identification of factors contributing to stress & effective counselling will have a greater impact on mental & physical health of persons covered under ESIC Health Scheme. Regular Health Education Programmes will ensure a good Quality of life (including Healthy lifestyle)& prevents morbidity. Prevention of osteoporosis & obesity by reg
