Work-related stress can increase the risk of cardiac arrhythmias

Work-related stress, particularly high workloads and an imbalance between effort and reward, can significantly increase the risk of developing atrial fibrillation, a condition characterized by irregular heart rhythm, according to a study published Wednesday.

Atrial fibrillation, the most common form of cardiac arrhythmia, can lead to serious cardiovascular complications such as stroke and heart failure.

The study, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, involved nearly 6,000 employees in Canada and found that those who were exposed to both high job stress and an effort-reward imbalance had a 97 percent increased risk of atrial fibrillation than those who were not exposed to these stressors.

Previous studies have linked work-related stress to coronary heart disease, but this study is the first to examine its effects on atrial fibrillation, noted lead author Xavier Trudel of Laval University in Quebec, Canada.

High workload, characterized by demanding workloads and low control over work decisions, was associated with an 83 percent higher risk of atrial fibrillation.

Similarly, an effort-reward imbalance occurs when significant effort at work is not accompanied by appropriate rewards such as salary or recognition. The increased risk was 44 percent higher. Workers who were exposed to both stressors simultaneously were at the greatest risk.

The study analyzed 18 years of follow-up data and identified 186 cases of atrial fibrillation among participants. Of those affected, 19 percent reported high workloads, 25 percent reported an effort-reward imbalance, and 10 percent reported both stressors.

Trudel emphasized the importance of identifying and addressing psychosocial stressors in the workplace to create a healthier work environment that can help prevent atrial fibrillation.

The study suggests that workplace interventions such as reducing workload, introducing flexible working hours and promoting communication between employees and managers could be effective strategies to reduce stress and its associated health risks.

Limitations of the study include that it focused on employees in Canada, which may limit the generalizability of the results to other worker types or regions. Nevertheless, the research highlights the potential health impacts of work-related stress and the need for preventive strategies.

Indo-Asian Intelligence Service