Association between Carbon Monoxide (CO) Exposure and Blood Pressure Risk among Informal Parking Workers

This study aims to investigate the relationship between ambient Carbon Monoxide (CO) concentrations and blood pressure risk factors among workers engaged in parking services in the traditional market area of Pariaman City, Indonesia. A cross-sectional design was employed, involving 64 male respondents across four clusters and two work shifts (morning and evening). CO concentrations were measured using a Monoxor III analyzer, while blood pressure readings were categorized based on standard clinical classifications. Although all measured CO levels were below the national safety threshold (average 7.6 ppm), a statistically significant correlation was found between elevated CO concentrations and increased diastolic blood pressure (p < 0.001), especially during evening shifts. Additionally, extended weekly working hours (mean = 58.4 hours), shift timing, and employment duration of approximately ten years or more (long-term workers) were significantly associated with higher blood pressure outcomes. Interestingly, smoking habits, though prevalent among respondents (70.3%), did not show a significant statistical association with either systolic or diastolic pressure. These findings highlight the compounded cardiovascular risks from environmental pollutants and occupational stressors in informal worker settings. The study underscores the need for public health interventions targeting vulnerable urban worker sectors, particularly through improved air quality monitoring, occupational regulations, and preventive health policies in high-exposure environments.