Work and health of truck drivers in the state of São Paulo

Abstract

The aim of the present study is to assess some aspects of health and work of truck drivers and to identify possible relationships, determining and/or aggravating factors of negative impacts in their quality of life. METHOD: 400 truck drivers in a city of SP in SP330 Highway were interviewed. A closed questionnaire was used approaching aspects of the drivers' perception of their health and work. RESULTS: 59.5% of workers are self-employed, and 58.5% do only short travels (within the limits of the State), they work an average 12.7 hours/day and have from 5-8 hours of sleep. Regarding health, they reported constant or occasional postural (67.75%), auditory (37.75%), and stomach problems (57.5%) as well as colds (70%), negative feelings such as fear, stress and depression (58.5%), dizziness (23%), hoarseness (30.75%), hem (36.5%), cough (53.5%). Regarding consumption habits and behaviors, 87.75% drank coffee, 84.5% ate greasy food, 43% had alcoholic beverages, 19.5% used energizers, 32% smoked, and 2% used other drugs. CONCLUSION: Several aspects of working conditions, habits and behaviors of truck drivers have negative impacts on health, impairing communication and quality of life.