Physical Activity Program as a Fitness Tool for Workers Exposed to Electromagnetic Field

Hosuien, Hanan Elsayed; Charl Fahmy, Fahmy; Bahr, Soaad; Abdelkader, Nehad

doi:10.21608/jhiph.2009.20742

Physical Activity Program as a Fitness Tool for Workers Exposed to Electromagnetic Field

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Research Worker in Physical Training, Alexandria

² Department of Occupational Health and Air Pollution, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt

³ Health Science Department, Faculty of Physical Education, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt

10.21608/jhiph.2009.20742

Abstract

Background: Electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure at low frequencies may cause some health problems. Objective: The present study was designed to test the effect of a comprehensive physical activity program on some fitness aspects of exposed workers with emphasis on cardio-autonomic control. Methods: A pre-test post-test experimental design was adopted. A representative sample of 30 workers exposed to low frequency EMF from Abou Qir electrical power station, Alexandria, were included in the study after fulfilling eligible criteria. Each one of the workers was subjected to a predesigned questionnaire including inquiries about sleep pattern subjective symptoms, and work and health satisfaction. Measurements of anthropometric indices, resting heart rate and blood pressure were done. Resting 12 lead ECG and R-R variability test during deep breathing were performed. A venous blood sample was taken for serum cholesterol and complete blood count determination. All these parameters were measured for the participants before and after implementation of a standardized physical activity program (PAP) for 12 weeks. Results: Results revealed significant improvement of some subjective and general complaints, and work and health satisfaction (p<0.05 for all). Heart rate, systolic blood pressure and R-R variability indices showed significant favorable effect of the PAP in the direction of augmenting the protective parasympathetic tone. Conclusion: PAP for workers exposed to EMF seems to be a good tool to improve their fitness and to ameliorate some health risks, emphasizing its importance in preventive implications.

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