In a first of its kind, the Mumbai traffic police conducted a health profiling for personnel from two of its 25 divisions as a pilot study, which revealed alarming health problems amongst them like obesity, hearing loss, lung abnormality, blood pressure, diabetes and high levels of cholesterol. These health problems lead to blockages in heart, kidney and brain, leading to other life threatening diseases. The report has been submitted to police commissioner Dr Satyapal Singh along with some recommendations. The study, which in the future may be extended to all the divisions, was conducted on around 180 persons, including eight women from the Saki Naka and airport divisions. About 62 of them were overweight, while one was severely obese, which is a factor for diabetes, hypertension, bone and joint diseases. About 25 of them had a problem of blood pressure, including 10 who had severe blood pressure and have been recommended to take up medication. Thirteen were found to be diabetic; eight with severely diabetic. Additionally, while 127 personnel tested normal, 13 showed abnormality in their lung functioning. Another eye-opening revelation was the Audiometric test, where 34 personnel were found to be facing hearing loss. A personal protective equipment (PPE), like earplug or earmuff, has been recommended for them. The doctors from Larsen & Toubro (L&T) who conducted the profiling stated that work hazards like irregular schedule, long hours of standing, exposure to high levels of dust and noise, exposure to ultraviolet radiation of sun and other ergonomic issues are the reasons behind their deteriorating health. Joint commissioner of police, traffic, Vivek Phansalkar said, “We see this as a serious issue. We want to extend this health profiling to the rest of the divisions.” Speaking on the recommendations that will be followed by the traffic police to get over the health issues, he added, “We have asked our men to exercise daily and to meditate. They will have to follow a proper diet to cut down on cholesterol, salt, fats, etc.” “Our new mantra is to keep healthy at work like a brisk walk, spot jogging and stretching for a few minutes. We are open to suggestions and shall take up all those recommendations, which can be implemented within our limitations,” he added.
