Trucking

Trucking Industry Tackles Smoking Crisis With Free Cessation Program

Truck drivers smoke at twice the rate of the general working population, according to the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health. This elevates their risk for heart attacks and strokes. St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund launched Rigs Without Cigs in September 2017 to combat the problem. The free program pairs one-on-one coaching with cessation tools including nicotine patches, lozenges, and prescription medication referrals. Since inception, more than 250 drivers have quit smoking through the initiative, while approximately 170 others reduced consumption by half. Data from the fund shows drivers typically leave the road due to illness at age 52. The program offers audiobooks, coffee pouches, email tips, and private Facebook support groups. All resources remain free to participants. Drivers interested in enrolling can register online and receive personalized coaching.