Stuck in Traffic? Here’s how it’s hurting your health

It’s not enough that many people spend long hours sitting in their offices working or handling daily responsibilities; getting home presents its own set of problems. In places like Accra, where traffic is consistently dreadful, commuters often endure hours-long gridlocks. By the end of the day, the toll taken by getting stuck in traffic can be even more dangerous than the stress experienced throughout the workday.

The Greater Accra Region has the highest number of registered vehicles, followed by Kumasi. The vehicle-to-population ratio steadily increased from 50 vehicles per 1,000 people in 2010 to 70 vehicles per 1,000 people in 2015. A 2017 study found that daily traffic in Accra results in an average of 2.5 hours lost by commuters using public buses, leading to overwhelming road congestion and hidden health hazards. Here are some of the effects of spending long hours in traffic:

Exposure to Air and Noise Pollution
Even though air-conditioned cars offer comfort during traffic jams, they still contribute to high levels of air pollution, releasing toxic gases and compounds into the atmosphere. Traffic congestion also leads to noise pollution, which increases stress and may cause hearing impairment and headaches. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, an average adult breathes about 3,400 gallons of air daily. Driving for two hours can expose you to gallons of polluted air, increasing the risk of asthma and other respiratory problems.

Stress
A 2017 Australian study revealed that driving for more than two hours a day significantly raises the risk of psychological distress and health issues such as obesity. Long-distance driving — especially in congested traffic — worsens stress levels. To lower the risks of heart disease and cancer, stress management should be integrated into drivers’ daily routines.

Physical Effects
Prolonged sitting while commuting can lead to numerous health problems, including obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, chronic leg pain, varicose veins, and swelling. It may also cause deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a potentially life-threatening condition where blood clots form in the legs. DVT can prevent a driver from operating a vehicle for at least two months. Back pain is another common issue, especially for people who sit for extended periods at work or while driving.