The necessity of improving cardiovascular health in commercial motor vehicle drivers

Abstract

Commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers have an increased risk for cardiometabolic risk factors and higher rates of cardiovascular disease relative to the general population. Lifestyle factors, including the sedentary nature of driving and lack of access to healthy foods, contribute to the disproportionately high cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk among commercial vehicle (CMV) drivers. Occupational physicals represent an important opportunity to reach populations with a high prevalence and incidence of coronary artery disease who may not otherwise seek preventive care. These visits are an opportunity to discuss primary and secondary prevention, including lifestyle topics such as diet and exercise, and potentially recommend or implement preventive medical therapy when indicated. Future iterations of licensing guidelines for drivers should seek to incorporate updated recommendations regarding diet, physical activity, and preventive pharmacologic therapies.

Keywords

• Cardiovascular disease
• Prevention
• Occupational health
• Diabetes
• Hypertension