Renal Function Analysis of Crane Operators in a Container Terminal and its Related Factors

Abstract

Objective. The objective of this study was to assess factors related to renal function in crane operators at a port container terminal in Indonesia.

Methods. A cross-sectional study on crane operators in Medan Container Terminal, Indonesia, was conducted. Renal function was measured through Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR). Individual characteristics such as age, nutritional status, fluid consumption, hydration status, and physical activity level were collected. Fluid consumption was obtained from a 24-h food recall questionnaire. Physical activity was measured based on the Bouchard questionnaire. Association was determined by calculating the odds ratio (OR) and its 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results. A total of 87 subjects were involved. All were male with the median age of 30.1 ± 2.4 years old. The prevalence of decreased renal function was 49.4%. Inadequate fluid consumption (OR = 6.1, 95% CI 2.1 -17.7; p<0.001) significantly increase the risk of renal function decreased, while being overweight/obese (OR 3.3, 95% CI 0.7 -11.7;p<0.125) and dehydration (OR 2.3, 95% CI 0.8-26.9; p=0.111) also increase the risk although not significantly.

Conclusion. Inadequate fluid consumption increases the risk of decline in the renal function of crane operators in the container terminal. A company should regularly monitor and evaluate the kidney function of this group of workers through annual medical checkups and provide easier access to drinking water and convenient toilets to improve fluid consumption of the workers.