Prevalence of Adverse Health Behaviors and Conditions Among Maritime Workers, BRFSS 2014 to 2018, 38 States

Abstract

Objective: To analyze health behaviors and conditions among maritime workers using Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRSS).

Methods: BRFSS data from 2014 to 2018 were used to calculate weighted prevalence estimates and adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs) for 10 health behaviors and conditions. Logistic regression was used to compare aPRs between maritime workers and all other US workers.

Results: Compared with other workers, maritime workers had higher weighted prevalence estimates for six of 10 health behaviors and conditions: binge drinking, smoking, obese/overweight, diabetes, cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Maritime workers had significantly higher aPRs for binge drinking (aPR = 1.28) and smoking cigarettes (aPR = 1.39) compared with all other US workers.

Conclusions: This study uses BRFSS data to estimate the prevalence of adverse health conditions across maritime industries. This study can serve as the foundation for additional follow-on research.