Non-significance of plasma total cholesterol in the occurrence of occupational accidents.

Abstract

A recent review of cholesterol lowering intervention trials has demonstrated an increased mortality from non-illness events, including accidents. This study examines 410 middle-aged men with regards to plasma total cholesterol levels and the occurrence of minor factory accidents. There was no significant difference in mean cholesterol concentrations between those who had reported a factory accident, and those who had not, over a 2 year period; 5.7 mmol/l (SD, 0.98 mmol/l) and 5.73 mmol/l (SD, 1.06 mmol/l) respectively. The 19 men who had sustained an occupational injury of significant severity to result in absence from work did not have a mean plasma total cholesterol level which differed appreciably from any of the other subjects, their mean being 5.66 mmol/l (SD, 1:18 mmol/l). Plasma total cholesterol in itself is not participating in the occurrence of accidents in this occupational group.