Preventive Health Check-Up: A Welfare Initiative for the Truck drivers

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Authors: Ankit Chowdhury, Sahil Jagnani, Snigdha Saikia
Cited by: 0

Abstract

Background: Truck driving is a physically and psychologically taxing job that puts drivers at risk for a number of illnesses, most notably non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Conditions including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular illnesses are exacerbated by a sedentary lifestyle, long work hours, and unpredictable sleep habits. By holding a preventative health check-up camp in Changsari, Assam, this study sought to evaluate the health status of truck drivers. Methods: The health screening, which involved 325 truck drivers, involved blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), and clinical biochemical analysis utilizing "Mobilab," a portable, battery-powered, Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled biochemistry analyzer. Key health markers pertaining to anemia, kidney, liver, and cardiovascular health were assessed throughout the examinations. Conclusion: This study revealed, 35% of individuals were at risk for kidney disease and 50.5% had an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease. Among all the drivers participated in the study, 39% were found to be anemic, and 18% had liver abnormalities. Furthermore, 21% of the subjects were overweight, and 8% had diabetes. According to BMI categorization, 12% were underweight and 3% were obese. These results show that truck drivers bear a heavy burden of lifestyle-related health concerns. This occupational group urgently needs proactive healthcare treatments due to the significant prevalence of NCD risk factors. Preventive measures, such as regular check-ups with the doctor, lifestyle changes, and health education programs, should be the main focus of a comprehensive health strategy. These hazards can be reduced by promoting healthy eating, frequent exercise, and access to recurring medical examinations. Enhancing the general health and wellbeing of truck drivers may be possible through the implementation of workplace wellness initiatives and the provision of auxiliary tools like ergonomic seating and appropriate rest periods.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Sleep and Work-Related Fatigue Traffic and Road Safety Older Adults Driving Studies

Publication details

Journal / source
Indian Journal of Public Health Research & Development
Volume
17
Issue
1
Pages
223–231
Publication date
6 January 2026