5 Most Common Truck Driver Health Problems

Is being a truck driver dangerous? The answer is no, but many drivers around and know that time on the road isn’t always the easiest. From sleep issues to heavy smoking, the job can lead to some bad habits – and eventually, potential health problems. Learn the top five most common truck drier health problems, along with ways to stay healthier and happier on the road. 

Truck Driver Health Issues

Is being a truck driver dangerous for all drivers on the job? Not necessarily. While every driver is different, there are five issues that consistently affect the truck-driving population around . The 5 most common truck driver health problems include:

• Obesity: The CDC reported that truck drivers are twice as likely to deal with obesity compared to other industries. Not only can this lead to health issues, but it can also hinder your ability to pass the mandatory DOT physical. 

• Diabetes: The CDC also reported that truck drivers are 50% more susceptible to diabetes. While some cases of diabetes are genetic, the majority stem from poor diet and exercise habits. 

• Hypertension: High blood pressure is yet another one of the common truck driver health issues that can result from diet. In this case, it’s most commonly caused by a high salt intake.

• Smoking: Truck drivers are twice as likely to smoke compared to other workers. Smoking is often used as a tool to prevent fatigue on long drives, but it’s no secret that smoking causes major health concerns.

• Sleep Disorders: Problems like insomnia and sleep apnea are common truck driver health issues. And since alertness is so crucial as a driver, the consequences of sleep disorders can be deadly.

Staying Healthy on the Road

So, how do you keep common truck driver health problems away? Adopting a healthier lifestyle can help resolve current issues, while also preventing future problems from popping up. Here are a few tips on how to maintain a tough trucker lifestyle:

• Explore Different Food Options: Fast food is convenient and consistent, but it’s not always the best option. Consider packing healthier meals and snacks and bringing them along for the ride, so you aren’t tempted by the drive-thru. 
• Get Moving: Finding time to exercise can be tricky, so why not take a quick walk or do some stretches during your DOT breaks? This can help offset the long hours of driving, while also getting endorphins flowing. 
• Get Regular Check-Ups: Getting an annual physical is a great opportunity to ask your doctor about any symptoms or concerns, while also getting screened for issues like hypertension and diabetes.
• Quit Smoking: There are tons of different methods to quit smoking: patches, gums, medication, and therapy. You can try more gradual methods, like smoking fewer cigarettes or switching to vaping.
• Prioritize Sleep: You deserve a consistent and quality sleep schedule, so don’t suffer in silence. Ask your doctor about remedies for any sleep concerns you might have. Options like CPAP machines for sleep apnea and melatonin for insomnia can make a world of difference, along with custom sleepers for semi drivers.

Learn More with International Used Truck Center

So, is being a truck driver dangerous? Not necessarily, and you can prevent a lot of truck driver health problems with the right planning. Feel free to check out our driver’s corner to learn about other issues of the industry, and contact us with questions along the way.