Background: Health-risk behaviors of over 3 million long haul truckers in the U.S. have been neglected by researchers, despite demonstrated links between truckers and HIV transmission in developing regions. Substance use and heterosexual/homosexual networks across highways and truckstops, exacerbated by professional stressors, constitute uncharted but critical public health issues. Study objectives are to: (a) identify categories/levels of risks for HIV infection among "highway cowboys" in the southwest U.S.; b) assess the prevalence of truckers' health-risk behaviors and identify protective/risk factors; and (c) develop recommendations for prevention programs. Methods: Data were collected via interviews, focus groups, and surveys at the intersection of two major highways in south central Arizona. Research sites included seven truck stops and several trucking-related businesses such as truck washes, restaurants, hotels, rest stops, truck repair shops, and bars. Results: Preliminary analysis of data collected with truckers, truck stop employees, and CSWs revealed significant health-risk behaviors. Sexual intercourse with female CSWs (with frequent reports of homosexual sex) on the road with multiple partners and irregular condom use emerged as prevalent patterns among younger truckers. Risks were compounded by occupational conditions that motivated truckers to drive long hours, often using substances to stay alert or to relax. Truckers perceived sex, alcohol, and drugs as quick and effective stress relievers during their downtimes on long trips. Multivariate analyses focus on cognitive/affective attitudes, social determinants, and personal normative beliefs along with peer influence and situational conditions as predictors of behavioral intentions and actual HIV risk behaviors.
Learning Objectives: Participants will: (1) Become aware of the epidemiological ramifications of health-risk behaviors exhibited by long haul truckers as well as of the protective and risk factors underlying truckers' HIV risk behaviors. (2) Be able to articulate intervention strategies to mitigate community health repercussions.
Keywords: HIV/AIDS, Population
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
Disclosure not received
Relationship: Not Received.