The Greatest Health Risks for Long-Haul Truck Drivers

The Greatest Health Risks for Long-Haul Truck Drivers

Longevity and quality of life greatly depend on outside factors. Diet, exercise, stress and disease prevention and management are all key components to the level of our well being. All trucking businesses should consider these critical health concerns and contain long haul trucking insurance.

Skin Cancer

Over 90 percent of skin cancer develops on body parts that are overexposed to the sun. Sunburn, moles, and a history of skin cancer are all factors that predispose you to skin cancer. Since truck drivers get more sun on one side of their face and arm, it’s important that they are vigilant about applying sunscreen and wearing long-sleeved shirts. 

Obesity

Obesity can cause just about every household disease. Truckers are at high risk for obesity due to the sedentary lifestyle and lack of healthy food options on the road.  A low calorie and low saturated fat diet which incorporates fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and legumes is highly recommended. 30 minutes of exercise a day and joining a support group to provide encouragement can also be helpful. 

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is often called a silent killer, because you may not even be aware that it’s happening. Obstructive sleep apnea is a potentially serious disorder that occurs when your throat muscles relax and block your airway during your sleep, leading to several seconds of oxygen deprivation. Obesity and age are both high risk factors for developing the disorder. Smoking makes this condition even more deadly. 

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure can lead to coronary artery disease, where the vessels around the heart can’t get enough blood to the heart. High blood pressure can also seriously damage kidneys, leading eventually to kidney failure, and if pressures get high enough, the risk of stroke increases as well. Many truckers report they have high blood pressure from the quality of food they consume and a lack of exercise space. Secure long haul trucking insurance in case a claim is filed against the business.  

Heart Attacks

A heart attack occurs when clots or plaque block blood flow to the coronary arteries, which oxygenate your heart muscle. Symptoms of a heart attack include squeezing pain or pressure felt in the chest or arms, pain or discomfort radiating from the jaw down to the arms, sweating, nausea, shortness of breath, and pain that isn’t relieved by rest. Eating fruits and vegetables and drinking plenty of water-a full glass before bed and never go to bed after eating a full, rich meal are ways to help keep our hearts healthy. Saturated fats, alcohol, smoking should be avoided. 

About Tobico Trucking Insurance

Trucking insurance is one of the most difficult types of insurance to obtain, but it doesn’t have to be. At Tobico Trucking Insurance, we are experienced and knowledgable about the trucking insurance market and the needs of trucking operations of all types and sizes. You need an agent who has the specialized knowledge of this ever-changing industry, and we have the products and the dedicated customer service to provide you with what you need. For more information, contact us any time of day at (469) 731-0707 to find out how we can help you.