A new study has revealed that work-related stress not only affects mental health but also increases the risk of heart disease in men. The study found that job strain, characterized by heavy workloads, tight deadlines, and lack of autonomy, can have severe negative effects on heart health. Additionally, the predicament known as “effort-reward imbalance,” where employees feel that their efforts are not adequately rewarded, also significantly impacts heart health.
The study, conducted by researchers from CHU de Quebec-University Laval Research Center, discovered that male workers experiencing job strain were 49% more likely to have heart disease compared to those without stressors. Men facing both job strain and effort-reward imbalance were twice as likely to have heart disease. The negative health effects of these stressors were found to be comparable to the impact of obesity on the risk of coronary heart disease.
The study emphasizes the need to address stressful working conditions to promote healthier work environments for the benefit of both employees and employers. Efforts should be made to proactively mitigate job strain and create fair compensation systems that recognize employees’ efforts. Understanding the relationship between work stressors and cardiovascular health is essential for public health and workforce well-being.
The study followed over 6,400 white-collar workers in Canada without cardiovascular disease over a period of 18 years. It focused on the compounded effects of job strain combined with other undesirable job attributes, such as low pay and lack of flexibility. While the results among women were inconclusive, further research is needed to explore the impact of work-related stress on their heart health.
Sources:
- Source 1: Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes – American Heart Association’s journal
