Truck drivers face hidden risks to health

“Truck drivers often spend long hours on the road with the right arm, face, and neck exposed through the side window,” Dr Torres said.

“Standard glass blocks UVB — the burning rays — but not UVA, which penetrates deeply and contributes to skin ageing and melanoma. Decades of daily driving add up, creating a high lifetime UV dose.”

He said Australian truck drivers had been shown to have increased rates of basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma on the face, neck and arms.

Early detection was key, and Dr Torres urged drivers to take changes seriously.

“Anyone should see a GP or skin clinic promptly if they notice a new spot, freckle, or mole that looks different from others, a spot that changes in size, shape, or colour, or a sore that doesn’t heal within a few weeks,” he said.

Prevention, however, remained the best defence.

“Long-sleeved lightweight shirts, sunscreen reapplied every two hours, UV-filtering window film in trucks, wraparound sunglasses and regular skin checks,” Dr Torres said.

“Australia has the highest rates of skin cancer in the world — two out of three Australians will be diagnosed by age 70. Most skin cancers are curable if found early, but delays increase the risk of spread, especially with melanoma.”

Beyond the physical dangers, long-haul driving and time away from family can also take a toll on mental wellbeing.

Holistic Health and Safety Partners director and health and wellbeing specialist Lesa O’Leary said isolation and absence from family weighed heavily on many drivers.

“Often they feel increased anxiety and a little bit of worthlessness because they’re not there, and they can’t be useful, even though they’re doing a great job,” Ms O’Leary said.

“We don’t want anybody to feel like that.”

She said recognising the pressures of the job and creating support networks within the transport industry was vital for protecting drivers’ mental health.

Together, the warnings from health experts point to a need for stronger support for drivers — both in practical safety measures and in mental wellbeing.

Employers in transport and logistics are encouraged to provide sun safety training, access to protective gear and initiatives that support mental health on the road.

For drivers themselves, staying vigilant with sun protection, booking regular skin checks and seeking help if struggling with stress or isolation could make a significant difference.