Association between Cardiovascular and Musculoskeletal Health in Firefighters

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the study is to determine the association between cardiovascular health (CVH) and musculoskeletal health in firefighters.

Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 309 full-time firefighters aged 20 to 65 years. Cardiovascular health encompassed cardiovascular disease risk factors, risk scores, CVH metrics, and heart rate variability. Musculoskeletal health was assessed using two validated questionnaires.

Results: Increasing age ( P = 0.004), body mass index ( P < 0.001), body fat percentage ( P < 0.001), diastolic blood pressure ( P = 0.003), total cholesterol ( P = 0.006), and Framingham risk score ( P = 0.011) increased the risk of reporting musculoskeletal injuries (MSIs). Obesity ( P = 0.018), hypertension ( P = 0.034), and dyslipidemia ( P = 0.005) increased the risk of reporting MSIs. Musculoskeletal discomfort was associated with total cholesterol ( P = 0.0.34) and low-density lipoprotein ( P = 0.014).

Conclusions: Adverse cardiovascular disease risk profile was associated with MSIs and musculoskeletal discomfort in firefighters. Firefighters should maintain an ideal CVH profile, especially as they age.