Working Overtime Isn’t Good for Your Heart

It turns out that the amount of time you spend at work can have a dramatic effect on your health.

According to new research conducted by the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, working longer hours can increase your risk of heart disease by up to 80 per cent.

The survey, which took data from studies conducted over the last 50 years, found that those who put in extra hours are at a higher risk of having heart problems.

It comes down to the fact that you are under more stress, have a higher blood pressure and are more likely to have an unhealthy diet.

 

Increased stress is one of the reasons that your risks are increased.

The extent of this was also highlighted in a British survey last year that found that people who work 11 hours, three more than the normal eight hour day, increase their risk of heart disease by over two thirds.

Speaking about the research, Dr Marianna Virtanen said: “There are several potential mechanisms that may underlie the association between long working hours and heart disease.

“One mechanism is prolonged exposure to psychological stress. Other triggers could be raised levels of stress, poor eating habits and lack of physical activity due to restricted leisure time.”