The impact of work nature, lifestyle, and obesity on health-related quality of life in chinese professional drivers

Abstract

Objective: To assess the association of work nature, lifestyle and obesity with health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in professional drivers. Methods: A total of 3376 Chinese professional drivers aged 18 to 70 years were recruited to assess the HRQOL by SF-12 summary scores (Physical Component Summary [PCS]; Mental Component Summary [MCS]), and collect data for work nature, lifestyle, and body mass index. Factors associated with HRQOL were examined by multiphase regression analyses. Results: Professional drivers reported poorer physical and mental HRQOL than the general population. Shift work and lorry driving had significant negative effect on HRQOL. Obesity was associated with lower PCS but higher MCS. Conclusions: HRQOL of professional drivers tended to be low, especially among lorry drivers and shift drivers. Health intervention programs should promote regular exercise, healthy eating, no smoking, and weight control, which are modifiable factors improving HRQOL. Copyright © 2012 by American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.