Cardiometabolic risk factors and mental health status among truck drivers: A systematic review

Oral Presentation B14.4

Authors

  • Amber J. Guest Loughborough University
  • Yu-Ling Chen Loughborough University
  • Natalie Pearson Loughborough University
  • James A. King Loughborough University; University Hospitals of Leicester
  • Nicola J. Paine Loughborough University
  • Stacy A. Clemes Loughborough University; University Hospitals of Leicester

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v14i3.586

Keywords:

Systematic Review, Workplace Health, Physical Activity

Abstract

Background: The poor health status of truck drivers is of public concern given the links between poor health and risk of a collision. Purpose: This study aimed to systematically review and summarise the literature on cardiometabolic risk factors, lifestyle-health behaviours and mental health status of truck drivers globally to ascertain the scale of these health concerns. Methods: A systematic review was performed between January 2019-January 2020. Papers were included if they were 1) in English, 2) reported data on truck drivers, 3) included outcomes related to cardiometabolic markers of health, mental health and/or health behaviours and 4) published in a peer-reviewed journal. Methodological quality was assessed. Due to heterogeneity of the outcomes, results were narratively presented. Results: Seventy-three studies met the inclusion criteria. Strong evidence was observed globally for truck drivers to exhibit high levels of cardiometabolic risk factors such as high BMI, hypertension, adverse blood profiles, mental ill-health and smoking status. However, insufficient evidence related truck driving to disease status. Conclusions: The findings demonstrate that the health of truck drivers is of global concern. Truck driving is associated with enforced sedentarism, long and irregular working hours, lack of healthy foods, social isolation and chronic time pressures. Improving truck driver health is vital for the longevity of the trucking industry, and for the safety of all road users. The workplace plays a vital role in truck driver health; policies, regulations and procedures are required to change to address this health crisis. Funding: None.

Published

2021-09-30

How to Cite

Guest, A., Chen, Y.-L., Pearson, N., King, J., Paine, N., & Clemes, S. (2021). Cardiometabolic risk factors and mental health status among truck drivers: A systematic review: Oral Presentation B14.4. The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, 14(3). https://doi.org/10.14288/hfjc.v14i3.586