Citation

Chalmers T, Lal S. J. Australas. Coll. Road Saf. 2014; 25(3): 23-30.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2014, Australasian College of Road Safety)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Within this exploratory study, data is presented regarding occupational and lifestyle factors that contribute to cardiovascular disease and depression within the truck driving industry, and subsequently contribute to reduced road safety in Australia. The study assessed associations between mood parameters, heart rate variability (HRV) and blood pressure in the unstudied population of Australian truck drivers. A total of 35 heavy vehicle truck drivers were recruited from the local community. Electrocardiogram recordings were obtained during an active and baseline driving simulator task. HRV low and high frequency parameters were obtained from the ECG. Subjects completed the Profile of Mood States questionnaire and the Lifestyle Appraisal Questionnaire. Blood pressure was recorded before and after the study. Numerous mood states (anger-aggression, total mood disturbance score) were correlated to an increase in sympathetic activity (p<0.05). Diastolic blood pressure was positively correlated to a number of mood states, the most significant correlation being depression-dejection (p<0.001).

Keywords: Blood pressure, Cardiovascular disease, Depression, Heart rate variability, Truck driving

Language: en