John Kelly, M.D.

Preventive services

We’re fortunate that there are effective preventive services to prevent chronic illnesses such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes and prevent acute illnesses such as flu and pneumonia.
     Recommended preventive services include vaccinations against flu and pneumonia, cholesterol screening, cancer screening, diabetes screening, as well as preventive screenings for behaviors and conditions that negatively impact health, such as physical inactivity, smoking, binge drinking, obesity, high blood pressure and depression.
     Unfortunately, many drivers do not receive recommended preventive services that would allow them to lead longer, healthier and more productive lives.  According to a recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “only about one-in-four Americans aged 50–64 regularly take advantage of preventive services such as screenings and immunizations.” 
     The Healthy Trucking Association of America (HTAA) Medical Committee strongly encourages drivers to know which preventive services are recommended for them.
     The CDC Web site cdc.gov is an excellent source of information about preventive services. The site provides practical information on “staying healthy” and discusses topics such as prevention of heart disease, cancer, diabetes and stroke. 
     For example, according to the CDC, high blood pressure is easily detectable with routine screening. Once under control, the benefits are striking: a 12-to- 13-point reduction in systolic blood pressure reduces heart attacks by 21 percent, strokes by 37 percent and all deaths from cardiovascular disease by 25 percent. But, among those with hypertension, 22 percent are unaware of their condition, and, among those taking antihypertensive medication, only 64 percent have their blood pressure under control.
     Another excellent source of information on preventive services is the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) Web site (ahrq.gov/clinic/uspstfix.htm). USPSTF is an independent panel of experts in primary care and prevention that develops recommendations for clinical preventive services such as cancer, heart and vascular diseases.   
     For example, USPSTF recommendations include screening for high blood pressure in the following: adults aged 18 and older, adults with blood pressure greater than 135/80, men aged 35 and older for lipid disorders, colorectal cancer beginning at age 50 years and tobacco cessation interventions for those who use tobacco products.
     Preventive services are often available at company worksites or company-sponsored events.  Preventive services are also often available at pharmacies, medical clinics and physician offices.
     Unfortunately, even when drivers understand the benefits of preventive services, many do not receive recommended preventive services because of inconvenience, cost or other priorities.
     The HTAA Medical Committee strongly recommends that drivers understand and receive recommended preventive services.
     Bottom line: obtain recommended preventive services. Stay healthy. Prevent illness.
     John T. Kelly, M.D., is Chief Medical Officer of Lifeclinic International, which manufactures blood pressure and weight monitors located in many trucking locations. Dr. Kelly was previously Chief Health and Medical Officer of Union Pacific Railroad. Dr. Kelly can be contacted at JKelly@lifeclinic.com.