Cardiovascular risk control in public transport drivers: Proposal for a theoretical model of protective motivation

Introduction: In Mexico, the mortality rate for cardiovascular diseases is 146.3 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants; ischemic forms are prominent. Public transport drivers are a vulnerable group to develop this disease due to the working conditions to which they are exposed. The objective is to propose a theoretical model of protective motivation for the control of the risk of cardiovascular disease in public transport drivers.Methods: A literature search was conducted in databases on the application of the protective motivation theory and the risk of cardiovascular disease, in Spanish and English.Results: The theoretical model was formed by the variables of perceived vulnerability, perceived severity, fear, self-efficacy, perceived efficacy, threat assessment, coping assessment, protection motivation and behavior (control of cardiovascular disease risk).Conclusions: The proposed model is an alternative to explain individual behaviors that could motivate individuals to take action in favor of their health, given the perception of threats and the coping skills that can influence the control of cardiovascular disease risk. Using the protective motivation model in nursing practice could contribute to modifying behaviors that position individuals to improve their health status.