As an OTR (Over-the-Road) driver, you are essential to food bank success.
You ensure the timely transportation of donated food across vast distances, connect food donors – such as manufacturers and grocery stores – to food banks. In turn, we can feed those in need.
Without you, food banks would face significant delays in receiving vital supplies, hindering our ability to serve communities in crisis.
As drivers, you navigate complex routes, often through challenging weather conditions. All to deliver large quantities of food where it’s needed most: here to the Food Bank.
Your role is pivotal in maintaining a steady flow of resources; without you, we could NOT do what we do when it comes to fighting food insecurity and serving those facing hunger in Larimer County.
Driver Resources
FAQs about OTR Driver Health
How does a sedentary lifestyle affect OTR drivers' health?
Sitting for extended periods is a major contributor to musculoskeletal issues, including back, neck, and joint pain, all of which are common among OTR drivers. The lack of physical activity on long trips, combined with poor ergonomics in the truck, can lead to chronic pain and discomfort. Additionally, this sedentary lifestyle raises the risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome, which includes a combination of high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess abdominal fat, and abnormal cholesterol levels. These conditions are linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, making it crucial for drivers to take regular breaks and engage in physical activity when possible.
Source: Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) – The Health Hazards of Trucking
Is there a link between the OTR driver and risk for diabetes?
Surprisingly, OTR drivers face a much higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The combination of irregular eating habits, unhealthy food choices, limited access to nutritious options on the road, and a lack of exercise significantly contributes to this risk. Many OTR drivers rely on fast food or snacks that are high in sugar, fat, and salt, all of which are risk factors for diabetes. The sedentary nature of their work, with hours spent sitting behind the wheel, also contributes to weight gain and insulin resistance, two primary factors in the development of diabetes. Without consistent exercise and access to healthy food options, many drivers face serious long-term health consequences.
Source: American Diabetes Association – Truck Drivers and Diabetes Risk
What is one surprising health risk faced by OTR drivers?
One surprising health risk is hearing loss. OTR drivers are often exposed to constant, high-decibel noise from the engine, traffic, and air brakes for long hours. Over time, this continuous exposure can lead to permanent damage to their hearing, even if they don’t always notice it immediately. Many drivers don’t take proper precautions like using ear protection, and because the hearing loss is gradual, it’s often not recognized until it becomes more severe. This can significantly impact their quality of life, making it difficult to communicate, hear traffic sounds, or detect important warnings.
Do OTR drivers have higher risk for mental health issues?
Yes, OTR drivers are at a significantly higher risk for mental health issues, particularly stress, anxiety, and depression. The nature of their job requires long hours on the road, often away from family and friends, which can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Their irregular schedules and limited sleep quality, combined with the stress of navigating traffic, deadlines, and safety concerns, can make mental well-being a significant challenge. Moreover, many drivers struggle with the pressure of maintaining their livelihood while balancing the emotional toll of being away from home for extended periods, which can contribute to burnout and decreased overall life satisfaction.
Do OTR drivers have higher risk for vision problems?
One surprising health risk is hearing loss. OTR drivers are often exposed to constant, high-decibel noise from the engine, traffic, and air brakes for long hours. Over time, this continuous exposure can lead to permanent damage to their hearing, even if they don’t always notice it immediately. Many drivers don’t take proper precautions like using ear protection, and because the hearing loss is gradual, it’s often not recognized until it becomes more severe. This can significantly impact their quality of life, making it difficult to communicate, hear traffic sounds, or detect important warnings.
