ASSESSMENT OF RESPIRATORY MORBIDITY AMONG JEEPNEY DRIVERS IN DAVAO CITY: BASIS FOR HEALTH PROMOTION PROGRAM

This study investigates the prevalence of respiratory symptoms among Jeepney drivers in Davao City, examining key determinants such as age, educational attainment, smoking status, past respiratory illness history, and years of driving experience. Out of 6,447 drivers, 363 respondents participated. Utilizing a quantitative approach, 363 jeepney drivers participated exclusively in Davao City, responding to a survey questionnaire adapted from the American Thoracic Society Division of Lung Disease Questionnaire (ATS-DLD 1978). The demographic data showed that the majority were aged 31-45 (43.8%) and high school graduates (59.5%). Health history revealed that 52.3% had no past respiratory illnesses, while 50.4% were smokers. The overall prevalence rate of respiratory symptoms was 2.12, indicating a "fairly acceptable" level, with moderate smoking habits reflected by a mean score of 2.33. Significant determinants of respiratory health included past respiratory illness history and years of driving experience, while age, educational attainment, and smoking status were insignificant. These findings suggest the need for targeted public health interventions, including occupational health programs, regular health check-ups, smoking cessation support, and educational initiatives to improve respiratory health outcomes among Jeepney drivers, especially those with extensive work experience and past illnesses.