The Prevalence and Risk Association of Cardiovascular Disease Among Offshore Male Workers in Peninsular Malaysia

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Offshore workers are exposed to occupational and lifestyle factors that may increase cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Limited data are available regarding cardiovascular risk profiles among offshore personnel in Malaysia. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of cardiovascular disease risk levels and associated factors among offshore male workers in Peninsular Malaysia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 241 offshore male workers between January and February 2025. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and clinical assessments, including body mass index, blood pressure, and lipid profiles. Participants were categorized into low, moderate, and severe CVD risk groups using Malaysian CVD risk scoring guidelines. Chi-square tests and binary logistic regression were performed to identify associated factors. RESULTS: Among the participants, 22.4% were classified as low risk, 47.3% as moderate risk, and 30.4% as severe risk. Overall, 77.7% fell within the moderate-to-severe CVD risk categories. Significant predictors of elevated risk included increasing age (OR=1.046, p=0.003), higher BMI (OR=1.094, p=0.001), smoking (OR=3.320, p=0.008), shift work (OR=2.663, p=0.017), high job stress (OR=4.530, p=0.003), hypertension (OR=5.930, p=0.011), and dyslipidaemia (OR=3.860, p=0.011). CONCLUSION: A high prevalence of moderate-to-severe cardiovascular risk was observed among offshore workers. Occupational health interventions, regular screening, and lifestyle modification programs are recommended to reduce cardiovascular risk in this population.