New research to help truck drivers get their health back on the road in the Midlands
A new NIHR-funded study led by Loughborough University in partnership with researchers from our University and the University of York is helping truck drivers in the Midlands get healthy by encouraging higher levels of physical activity and a healthier diet that fits in with their work schedule.
Long distance lorry drivers are exposed to a multitude of health risks associated with their job, including long and variable working hours and long periods of sitting. Tight schedules and being on the road can contribute to psychological stress and sleep deprivation.
Their working environment provides limited opportunities for a healthy lifestyle. As a consequence, lorry drivers exhibit higher than average rates of obesity, obesity-related co-morbidities such as diabetes and high blood pressure, and have a significantly reduced life expectancy in comparison to other occupational groups.
Researchers led by Dr Stacy Clemes at Loughborough teamed up with logistics company DHL to test the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the research team’s ‘Structured Health Intervention For Truckers’ (the SHIFT programme). The aim of the programme is to promote positive behavioural changes in terms of increased physical activity and a healthier diet.
The average age of HGV drivers is 53 and previous research by the same team indicates that 84 percent of HGV drivers were overweight or obese compared to 75 percent of men the same age nationally. In this study, drivers reported working an average of 48 hours each week.
Researchers will recruit over 300 HGV drivers to the SHIFT study and their depots will be allocated to either take part in the programme or continue their usual work routines. The programme will begin with a six hour educational session where drivers taking part in the trial will be given a physical activity tracker (Fitbit©)Â and equipment to help them safely keep active in the cab when they’re not driving. They’ll also be given specific advice relating to health issues associated with the job and additional materials detailing healthy living choices. A trained champion will be on hand throughout the trial to support people taking part.
Data including number of steps a day, amount of sleep, blood pressure and cholesterol will be measured at the start of the programme and at six and 12 months to see if the programme has helped drivers improve their health. Researchers will also consider the impact of the programme on mental health and quality of life.