The most extensive national study on truck driver health has revealed a prevalence of significant medical issues and mental health struggles.
Key points:
Truck driver Frank Black highlights his main challenges as weight management and maintaining personal relationships. Retired truck driver Jerry Brown-Barre mentions that the industry prioritizes profits, placing drivers in a secondary position. According to the Transport Workers’ Union, there is a critical need for improved access to nutritious food and exercise facilities.
Over half of the 1,400 drivers surveyed were found to be obese.
Dr. Ross Iles, a researcher, noted that approximately 30% of drivers had three or more diagnosed health issues, significantly higher than the general Australian population.
“One third of the drivers reported experiencing lower back pain, while a quarter were diagnosed with hypertension,” Dr. Iles added.
The survey was conducted by Monash University with support from the National Health and Medical Research Council, along with co-funding from the Transport Workers’ Union, Linfox, and the Centre for Work Health and Safety.
Dr. Iles mentions that while much research has focused on road safety, this survey aimed to address the overall health conditions of truck drivers. “A healthy driver equates to a safe driver,” he stated.
‘I wouldn’t say it’s a healthy lifestyle’
Frank Black shared that managing his weight and personal relationships remains challenging. “I struggle with weight, and it has affected my personal life,” he explained.
Recently retired driver Robert Bell admitted to weighing 126 kilograms after years of unhealthy eating on the road. He has now undergone gastric band surgery.
“Three large meals daily, including hearty breakfasts, were common, but it comes with a price,” he acknowledged. “It’s not a healthy lifestyle by any means.”
Dr. Iles pointed out that several barriers hinder healthy eating on the road, such as parking limitations near grocery stores and the restricted capacity for food storage in trucks.
Many drivers expressed job-related stress, with half of those surveyed reporting various levels of psychological distress.
Retired truck driver Jerry Brown-Sarre emphasized the necessity for better training and highlighted a lack of concern for driver welfare. “It all revolves around profit, and drivers come second,” he remarked. Despite having numerous health issues, many drivers still felt competent in their roles, a fact Dr. Iles found intriguing.
Bell noted that the industry culture compels drivers to endure health problems. “If they don’t complete their trips, they risk losing significant income,” he added. “In this field, payment is directly tied to time spent driving, which poses a real challenge.”
