Arterial hypertension incidence rates in a cohort of nuclear workers

Abstract

Objective. To assess incidence rates for arterial hypertension (HTN) in the cohort of workers exposed occupationally to prolonged radiation. Design and methods . Incidence of HTN was studied in the cohort of 22,377 workers of the first nuclear enterprise in the former USSR, the Mayak Production Association, for the entire follow-up period (1948–2008). “Crude” and standardized incidence rates were calculated. To standardize incidence rates indirect method was applied. Results. As of 31.12.2008, 8,047 cases of HTN were registered in the study cohort (5,463 in males and 2,584 in females). Standardized incidence rates for HTN among workers of the study cohort were significantly associated with sex, attained age and body mass index. No relation was found between standardized incidence rates of HTN to occupational prolonged external gamma- ray-radiation. Conclusions. Incidence of HTN in the cohort of nuclear workers was related to non-radiation factors, but had no association with occupational prolonged exposure.