New Study Finds Job Strain Doubles Men’s Risk of Heart Disease
Men who experience job strain and report high effort but low reward have twice the risk of heart disease compared to those without these psychological stressors, according to a recent study by Canadian researchers. The impact of this combination on heart disease risk is similar to that of obesity, the authors noted. The study, published in the American Heart Association (AHA) journal Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes, highlights the need to address workplace stress factors.
Job strain refers to work environments with high demands and low control, such as heavy workloads, tight deadlines, and limited decision-making. Effort-reward imbalance occurs when employees invest high effort but perceive inadequate or unequal rewards. The researchers followed nearly 6,500 white-collar workers in Canada over 18 years and found that men who reported job strain or effort-reward imbalance had a 49% higher risk of heart disease.
While previous research has linked job strain and high effort with low reward to heart disease risk individually, few studies have examined the combined effect of these factors. The study’s lead author, Mathilde Lavigne-Robichaud, emphasized the importance of reducing stressors in the work environment, as they may also impact other health issues like depression. Promoting work-life balance, improving communication, empowering employees, and providing support resources are suggested interventions.
However, the study primarily focused on men and women in white-collar jobs in Quebec, Canada, which may not fully represent the diversity of the American working population. Additional research is needed to establish a direct link between job stressors and heart disease in women. Individuals concerned about their heart health should consult with their doctors to assess cardiovascular risk factors and develop personalized plans for heart health that consider work-related and other risk factors.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., with approximately 695,000 people dying from it in 2021. Addressing workplace stressors collectively can contribute to a healthier work environment and reduce heart health risks.
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