The findings reveal diverse sexual practices among truck drivers and identify factors associated with increased exposure to STIs, underscoring the need for strategies to promote the sexual health of this population.
The study sample was almost entirely male, with 209 of 211 truck drivers (99.1%) identifying as male.
More than one in four truck drivers reported experiencing signs or symptoms in the genital region suggestive of a sexually transmitted infection.
Consistent condom use was low, with fewer than one quarter of participants reporting always using condoms.
Signs or symptoms suggestive of STIs were significantly associated with number of sexual partners, casual partners, and illicit drug use.
Rapid tests for syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis B and C were offered as part of the study protocol.
This research examined the sexual behavior and health practices of truck drivers in northeastern Brazil, a group considered to be at elevated risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) due to long periods away from home, mobility across regions, and contact with multiple partners. Over 200 truck drivers were surveyed at fuel stations and offered rapid tests for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B and C. The study found that nearly 30% of drivers reported genital symptoms suggesting an STI, yet only about 22% consistently used condoms, and 39% of those with symptoms never sought medical care. The research also identified specific behaviors linked to higher STI risk: drivers who had more sexual partners, who engaged with casual partners, or who used illicit drugs were significantly more likely to report STI-related symptoms. These associations suggest that certain lifestyle factors common in the trucking profession compound the risk of infection and transmission. This research suggests that truck drivers represent a population with significant unmet sexual health needs, including gaps in condom use, health-seeking behavior, and access to preventive care. The findings point to a need for targeted public health interventions — such as accessible testing, condom distribution, and health education — specifically designed to reach this mobile, hard-to-access workforce at locations like fuel stations where they can be contacted during their routes.
Oliveira F, Araújo M. (2026). Sexual behavior and preventive practices among truck drivers to prevent Sexually Transmitted Infections.. Revista gaucha de enfermagem. https://doi.org/10.1590/1983-1447.2025.20250002.en