The Smoking Habits of Truckers and Other Health Concerns

What percentage of truckers are smokers?
Truck driving is primarily a blue-collar workers industry. Truck driving is an occupation among those with the highest smoking rates with one study reporting that the prevalence of smoking among vehicle operators was 34% compared to 25% in the general working population.
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Truck drivers work long hours, are frequently separated from their families, and have limited access to wholesome food and physical activity. These elements, along with the strain of the job, can cause a number of health issues for truck drivers. How many truckers smoke is one of the most often asked questions.

In a research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it was discovered that roughly 51% of long-haul truck drivers smoke. Compared to the about 14% adult national average, this is much higher. The survey also discovered that smokers among truck drivers tend to smoke more frequently than smokers in general, averaging 21 cigarettes daily as opposed to the national average of 14.

Approximately 62 years old is the typical retirement age for truck drivers. This is a little older than the 61-year-old national average. The physical demands of the job force many truck drivers to retire prematurely owing to health issues or other reasons.

Compared to the overall population, truck drivers have a shorter average lifespan. This is caused by a number of things, such as the high rate of smoking, bad dietary habits, inactivity, and job stress. Truck drivers are also more prone to be in accidents and experience sleep disorders like sleep apnea.

Despite these difficulties, driving trucks can be a rewarding profession for people who value independence and are prepared to work long hours. There is a great need for qualified drivers, and truck drivers may expect to make a solid living. But it’s crucial for truck drivers to look after their health by maintaining a nutritious diet, exercising frequently, and stopping smoking if they smoke.

Back issues are another common health issue for truck drivers in addition to smoking. About 70% of truck drivers have back pain, according to a research by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). According to the study, prolonged driving induces whole-body vibration and repetitive motion in truck drivers, which are the most common causes of back discomfort. Truck drivers should take regular pauses to stretch and move around, utilize proper lifting techniques when loading and unloading cargo, and get a high-quality seat and back support cushion if they want to avoid developing back issues.

In conclusion, the trucking industry needs to address significant issues such truckers’ smoking habits and other health difficulties. By giving up smoking, adopting a healthy diet, exercising frequently, and taking care to avoid back issues, truck drivers can improve their health. Employers can also help by offering tools and information on health, supporting healthy behaviors, and providing benefits like wellness initiatives and assistance with quitting smoking.

FAQ
People also ask do truck drivers have leg problems?

Yes, truck drivers may get leg issues as a result of their prolonged sitting and restricted movement during long drives. Poor circulation, edema, and even blood clots might result from this. To avoid these health problems, truck drivers must constantly take breaks and stretch their legs.

What is the difference between a wrecker and a rotator?

When a car needs to have its front or rear ends lifted off the ground so that it may be towed, a wrecker is the sort of tow truck that is employed. In contrast, a rotator is a more sophisticated kind of tow truck that includes a rotating arm that resembles a crane and can raise and rotate a vehicle in any direction. As a result, it is more versatile and effective in towing scenarios that are more complicated.