There are several studies on inguinal hernias that give some clues about the association between this type of hernia and certain risk factors. This association was suspected long ago but had not been demonstrated. The present study tries to correlate the origin of inguinal hernias and the physical effort of the subjects in accordance with their work activity. The results of this study show that physical effort, as a risk factor, is closely related to the appearance of inguinal hernias. A person whose work involves lifting or other strenuous exertion has a higher risk than those whose jobs are less strenuous (p less than 0.05). This conclusion was reached after taking into account not only the weight lifted but also the number of years in this activity.