Featured News
March 21, 2016
According to a recent study from the University of Minnesota Morris published in the journal Sleep, truck drivers who fail to adhere to their sleep apnea treatments face a fivefold increased risk of significant, avoidable accidents.
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a serious sleep disorder characterized by episodes of halted or interrupted breathing during sleep, often leading to various health complications, including excessive daytime drowsiness. The study’s authors estimate that drowsiness is a factor in as many as 20% of large truck accidents, advocating for regular screening and treatment of sleep apnea for commercial drivers to maintain their driving privileges.
Dr. Clayton Cowl, who leads Preventive, Occupational, and Aerospace Medicine at Mayo Clinic, previously published research highlighting the severity of sleep apnea among commercial drivers. He states, “This new study corroborates our understanding that truck drivers’ health significantly influences safety. Many truck drivers typically lead a sedentary lifestyle, which can lead to serious health conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea, hypertension, diabetes, congestive heart failure, and pulmonary hypertension. Health professionals should ensure that commercial truckers are adequately screened and treated during their medical evaluations to reduce roadway accidents.”
Dr. Cowl emphasizes that all drivers, not just truck operators, should take proactive measures to remain alert and safe on the roads. Those with OSA or other health concerns affecting safety are encouraged to consult with their healthcare providers to manage their conditions effectively.
For more insights, you can watch Dr. Cowl discuss obstructive sleep apnea and its impact on truck drivers here. Journalists can access broadcast-quality video clips featuring Dr. Cowl and additional footage of trucks on the highway in the downloads section.
