Relationship Between Obesity and Driving

Obesity, which has become epidemic throughout many parts of the world, is known to be a risk factor for a range of diseases including hypertension, diabetes, and vascular disease. Based on this review, it also appears that obesity is associated with increased crash risk and increased risk of serious or fatal injury in a crash. The problem is particularly an issue for commercial truck drivers. Data are presented showing the high prevalence of obesity in truck drivers. Inadequate sleep, poor nutrition, lack of exercise, and the sedentary nature of driving all contribute to the risk of obesity. The obesity related condition of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is known to increase crash risk. Treatment of this condition has been demonstrated to improve driving performance and to reduce crash risk. Screening truck drivers for obesity related health conditions, such as OSA, would be expected to result in public safety benefits.