Analysis of the comorbid pathology structure among workers of a heavy industry enterprise

Chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCDs) are prevalent among individuals of working age, underscoring the importance of screening studies aimed at identifying risk groups. Objective. To conduct a comprehensive analysis of the distribution of chronic non-communicable diseases, including comorbidities, among metallurgical workers, based on the characteristics of their labor processes. Materials and methods. This cross-sectional study involved 547 employees (average age 47.2±8.7 years) from Magnitogorsk Iron & Steel Works PJSC, categorized into three groups according to their labor process characteristics. The study was conducted in two stages. During stage one, all participants completed a validated ARTROVIS questionnaire to identify musculoskeletal system (MSS) disorders and other CNCDs. Two hundred sixty-six employees who underwent additional laboratory examinations were invited to stage two, which included a consultation with a rheumatologist. The analysis of CNCD incidence was performed using descriptive statistics in Statistica 12.0 and Python. Results. A high prevalence of musculoskeletal system disorders (89%) as well as cardiovascular and endocrine disorders was observed among the participants. The prevalence of 90 CNCDs, as classified by ICD-10, was assessed, revealing statistically significant differences (p<0.05) between groups characterized by varying levels of physical activity for 9 specific conditions: M21, M25, M42, M50, M51, M54, M60, M75, and I83. The analysis of comorbidity indicated that 47% of employees had three or more concurrent diseases; additionally, 15—20% were neither adhering to antihypertensive therapy nor informed about their blood chemistry parameters, such as uric acid and glucose levels. Conclusion. The effectiveness of the ARTROVIS questionnaire for the early detection of chronic non-communicable diseases has been demonstrated. Systematic questionnaire implementation helps identify the most vulnerable occupational groups. The early detection of pathologies in high-risk workplaces, including the heavy industry sector, facilitates the introduction of targeted preventive programs, thereby reducing incidence rates and promoting the health of the working population.