New data has revealed the one job with a life expectancy four years shorter than the national average. As of this year, there are 280,000 HGV drivers currently working in the UK. Despite the high number of people doing the job, there are many misconceptions surrounding the role, one in particular being drivers’ health.
Data from the Office of National Statistics reveals that the life expectancy of a male truck driver is 76.6 years, nearly a full four years shorter than the average UK male life expectancy. Studies show that lorry drivers are at risk of conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and musculoskeletal disorders. Cardiovascular disease increasing over the age of 50, which is a particular concern as 59% of truck drivers are over 46.
There are preventative measures that can be made, including: Meal preparation, avoid sugar and refined carbohydrates, hydration, squat breaks, and do regular blood tests and blood pressure checks.
Truck drivers’ sedentary lifestyle affects physical and metabolic health over time, according to experts.
Partnering with Smith Bros, Dr Enam Abood explained that sitting down for long periods can reduce muscle mass, which in turns affects metabolism.
He said: “A sedentary lifestyle reduces muscle mass, impacts heart health and affects circulation.
“The heart is a muscle, and it needs to work to stay strong, so never having a raised pulse through exercise means the heart will slowly lose its ability to do its job.
“Having less muscle also reduces the body’s ability to metabolise food and increases fat storage and insulin resistance, leading to diabetes. Longer term, it will lead to loss of function movement, hindering our ability to get up, reach, squat and so on.”
There are also concerns for the kidney and skin health of truck drivers, who may not drink enough water and can be exposed to the sun all day.
Dr Abood added: “Truck drivers need to be very aware of their urinary and kidney health. Holding in urine and not drinking enough water can increase the risk of kidney stones and other kidney issues.
“Constant sun exposure on certain parts of the body, such as the forearm and side of the face, can cause sun damage and increase the risk of skin cancer.
“Be aware of limiting sun exposure by wearing long sleeves and using SPF 50 sun protection on exposed areas, including the face and hands.”