Men with chronic work stress more likely to die
01 March 2002
Men under high levels of chronic stress at work are more likely to die from any cause than their peers.
A large US study shows that higher mortality due to cardiovascular events (e.g. heart attack) or other factors was more likely in men whose business had failed, those who had been being fired or demoted or who were having problems with co-workers.
Being unable to work because of a disability or changing to a new type of work were also risk factors.
The study also confirmed that men who are separated or divorced were more likely to die than men who remained married (Archives of Internal Medicine 2002; 162: 309-15).
The researchers recommended that doctors could help reduce chronic stress by counselling men at high risk.
More than 12,000 men were assessed for work and marital stresses over 7 years and followed for a further 9.
Last Reviewed: 01 March 2002
- 1. Medical Observer Weekly 22/02/02
