Truckers Face Higher Colorectal Cancer Risk: What Contributes to It, How to Reduce the Odds

National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month: Why It Matters
March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a time to focus on prevention, early detection, and treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC).

• CRC is the third most common cancer in both men and women.
• Approximately 5% of men and 4% of women will be diagnosed in their lifetime.
• In 2025, an estimated 154,270 adults will be diagnosed, and 52,900 deaths will occur due to this disease.

Truckers and Colorectal Cancer: A Concerning Connection
Long-haul truck drivers face a higher risk of CRC compared to the general population. A study of more than 47,000 truck drivers revealed alarming findings:

• Obesity: Obese and morbidly obese drivers face 4 times greater odds of CRC than drivers of normal weight.
• Multiple health conditions: Drivers with 4+ medical conditions are 7 times more likely to be diagnosed.
• Age: Odds of CRC increase 10% per year of age, and nearly 75% of OTR drivers are over 40.

Risk Factors for Truck Drivers
Truckers can reduce their risk by taking proactive health measures:
1. Get Screened

• Begin regular screenings at age 45 for average-risk individuals.
• Early detection significantly improves outcomes.
• The St. Christopher Truckers Development and Relief Fund offers at-home screening kits for OTR drivers for just $50.

2. Improve Lifestyle Habits

• Balanced nutrition: Incorporate fruits, vegetables, and fiber; limit red and processed meats.
• Stay active: Walk or stretch during breaks to combat sedentary hours.
• Stay hydrated: Replace sugary sodas and energy drinks with water.
• Avoid tobacco and alcohol, both known CRC risk factors.

3. Manage Chronic Conditions

• Stay on top of diabetes, hypertension, and other health issues.
• Keep regular check-ups and follow prescribed treatments.

4. Watch for Symptoms

• Changes in bowel habits
• Rectal bleeding
• Abdominal pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue

Presence of colon polyps, often detected through colonoscopy, may serve as early-warning signs.

Colorectal Cancer Is Preventable
With proper screenings, lifestyle adjustments, and health management, colorectal cancer is often preventable. For long-haul truck drivers—who already face unique health challenges—proactive steps can make all the difference in lowering risk and improving quality of life.

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