Truck drivers play a pivotal role in the transportation of essential goods and services across the country. However, the nature of their work and the lifestyles often associated with them pose significant health risks. From long hours behind the wheel to limited access to healthy and nutritious food, truck drivers disproportionately struggle with their health. In this article, we will explore some of the most common health issues that truck drivers deal with, along with how these issues arise.
Obesity
According to a survey conducted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), 69% of truck drivers reported that they had a body mass index (BMI) greater than or equal to 30, which the World Health Organization (WHO) categorizes as obese. The combination of prolonged sitting, a lack of physical activity, and poor dietary options can make it very difficult for truck drivers to maintain a healthy weight. Oftentimes, the only food available to them as they pass through deserted and less populated areas is from fast food restaurants or gas stations, which usually only offer high-calorie, greasy, and sugary snacks and food. Over time, the consistent consumption of these foods can lead to significant weight gain and obesity, thereby increasing your susceptibility to developing additional health issues.
Sleep Disorders
Sleep disorders are another prevalent issue among truck drivers. In particular, many truck drivers experience obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which is characterized by episodes of complete or partial airway collapse while sleeping, causing interruptions in one’s breathing. This results in individuals experiencing inadequate and nonrestorative sleep, which can cause extreme fatigue and other serious consequences such as difficulty concentrating. This can become extremely dangerous as truck drivers are expected to drive for long, consecutive hours.
According to the Kent truck accident attorneys at Brumley Law Firm, one of the leading causes of truck accidents is driver fatigue. Additionally, in the FMCSA’s Large Truck Crash Causation Study (LTCSS),13% of truck drivers were reported to have been fatigued at the time of their crash. If left untreated, these sleep disorders will result in a vicious and seemingly never-ending cycle of chronic fatigue.
Diabetes
Another health issue among truck drivers is diabetes. According to the aforementioned FMCSA survey, 14% of truck drivers reported that they had diabetes. In particular, type 2 diabetes is the greatest concern for truck drivers. The prevalence of diabetes among truck drivers can be linked to various risk factors that make individuals more susceptible to developing type 2 diabetes, such as obesity and lack of physical activity. If left untreated, those with type 2 diabetes can also experience several serious health complications such as heart disease, nerve damage, and kidney problems. Managing your diabetes on the road can be very difficult for truck drivers as they are challenged to maintain a consistent and healthy diet, monitor their blood sugar levels, and take any pertinent medication. While these lifestyle adjustments may be challenging, adopting them is crucial to truck drivers’ long-term health.
