Effect of yogic intervention on urinary melondialdehyde levels, autonomic functions and quality of life among buffing polishing workers of an automobile industry
Background: Oxidative stress at industry setting poses a threat to autonomic functions and quality of life deterioration of the workers in automobile industry. Yogic intervention may improve the stress levels and autonomic functions thereby improves their quality of life. Aims and Objectives: This study was aimed to see the effect of 12 weeks of yogic regimen on urinary melondialdehyde levels (MDA), autonomic functions and quality of life in workers exposed to buffing polishing work in an automobile industry. Materials and Methods: 35 male subjects of age group 25-40 years working on buffing polishing machine for 4-6 hours/day, 6 days in a week for the last 2 years were selected as subjects from an automobile industry. Same number of age and sex matched controls not involved in buffing polishing work were also selected from the same socioeconomic background. Urinary MDA levels, autonomic functions and health related quality of life parameters were recorded before and after 12 weeks of practicing yogic regimen. All the parameters were analyzed intergroup as well as intra-group by 2 way ANOVA followed by the Tukey’s Test. Results: Significant improvement was found in MDA levels, weight, BMI, E:I ratio & cold pressor test of autonomic function tests and all the physical and psychological domains of quality of life after practicing 12 weeks of yoga regimen. Conclusions: Integrated yogic regimen in buffing polishing workers can improve stress markers thereby improving their autonomic functions and health related quality of life. Thus yoga and pranayama can be encouraged and incorporated as a part of their routine schedule
