Dr. Adam Hege

Truck drivers have long been known by public health experts to be at risk, as they are considered participants in one of the most unhealthy occupations in America. The long hours, isolation and lack of access to both healthy food and opportunities to exercise are a recipe for physical and mental illness.

Are there ways to help? Dr. Adam Hege, associate professor of public health and community health expert, thinks so. He has conducted research studies, written numerous papers about the topic, and hopes to shed light on what can be done to improve the quality of life for these hard-working individuals.

Hege specializes in community health and public health policy. He is currently conducting research on community health challenges in rural North Carolina as well as continuing his research on the health and safety of long-haul truck drivers.

Areas of expertise:

• Occupational/worksite health and safety
• Health disparities among rural communities
• Community-based participatory research
• Food insecurity in rural North Carolina