Correlation of Body Mass Index and Abdominal Girth with Risk of Varicose Veins Among Teachers of Belagavi Urban

BACKGROUND: Varicose veins, characterized by swollen and twisted veins cause significant health issues including pain, ulceration, and decreased quality of life due to venous valve dysfunction. Professions involving prolonged standing are associated with a higher risk of developing varicose veins due to increased pressure on leg veins. Additionally, obesity—indicated by high BMI and increased abdominal girth—exacerbates this risk by increasing venous pressure and worsening vein dysfunction. Although the impact of prolonged standing is well-documented, research on the specific roles of BMI and abdominal girth in varicose vein risk among teachers is limited. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship between BMI, abdominal girth, and the risk of varicose veins among teachers in Belagavi Urban. METHODOLOGY: The study involved 146 teachers from various schools in Belagavi. Data on demographics and work experience were gathered using a semi-structured questionnaire. Participants were categorized into two risk groups—minimal and high—based on their likelihood of developing varicose veins, according to the study's operational definitions. ANALYSES AND RESULTS: Data were analyzed using SPSS 29.0.2 with descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Participants were divided into two risk groups, and significant correlations were found between varicose veins and abdominal girth, BMI, and age, indicating these factors are strongly associated with increased risk. DISCUSSION: Varicose veins were prevalent among teachers, particularly those aged 35-44. Increased abdominal girth was significantly associated with higher risk, emphasizing the role of abdominal obesity. The higher proportion of affected females suggests hormonal influences. Prolonged standing was a significant risk factor. Family history and other factors had minimal impact, suggesting they may be secondary rather than primary factors. CONCLUSION: BMI, abdominal girth, and age are positively correlated with varicose vein risk, while family history and other determinants showed less significance. Keywords: Varicose veins, prolonged standing, abdominal girth, BMI