The burden of prolonged sedentary behavior imposed by uberization.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Occupational Health
• Urban Mobility

Background:

• Mobility applications offer convenient and low-cost transportation solutions globally.
• Drivers for these applications often work extended hours, exceeding typical fixed-hour employment.
• Drivers circumvent mandatory rest periods by switching between applications, leading to prolonged work durations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the potential health effects of prolonged work on mobility application drivers.
• To examine the link between extended driving shifts and increased sedentary behavior.
• To propose strategies for mitigating health risks associated with this occupational group.

Main Methods:

• This is an opinion article, synthesizing existing knowledge and expert perspectives.
• It reviews the nature of work in the mobility application sector.
• It defines and discusses sedentary behavior and its health implications.

Main Results:

• Prolonged work hours in mobility applications can lead to increased sedentary behavior.
• Circumventing rest period regulations exacerbates the issue of extended work duration.
• Sedentary behavior is linked to various detrimental health outcomes.

Conclusions:

• The burden of prolonged work among mobility application drivers presents a significant public health concern.
• Addressing sedentary behavior requires strategies that consider the unique work structure of these drivers.
• Further research and policy interventions are needed to protect driver health.