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[Long working hours and cardiovascular diseases: a systematic review]
Tsutomu Hoshuyama1, Seichi Horie, Takao Tsutsui
1Department of Environmental Epidemiology, Institute of Industrial Ecological Sciences, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, Yahatanishi-ku, Kitakyushu 807-8555, Japan.
Journal of UOEH
|December 20, 2005
Summary
This study found no direct evidence linking long working hours (LWH) to cardiovascular diseases (CVD) despite countermeasures in Japan. Further research is needed to explore potential links and preventive factors.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Public Health Policy
Background:
- Japan implemented countermeasures against overwork's adverse health effects three years prior.
- Fruitful outcomes regarding overwork and health were anticipated.
- Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain a significant public health concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review recent evidence on the association between long working hours (LWH) and cardiovascular diseases (CVD).
- To identify potential psychosocial factors and occupational models related to CVD prevention.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review of English-written original articles published until December 2004.
- An electronic database search was conducted using PubMed.
- Twelve articles met the study's inclusion criteria.
Main Results:
- No conclusive evidence was found supporting a direct association between long working hours (LWH) and cardiovascular diseases (CVD).
- Some studies highlighted the role of psychosocial factors, such as vital exhaustion, in CVD prevention.
- Distinctive studies explored statistical modeling of occupational and biological factors interacting with psychosocial elements.
Conclusions:
- Current evidence does not establish a clear link between long working hours and cardiovascular diseases.
- Psychosocial factors and occupational health modeling warrant further investigation for CVD prevention strategies.
- Additional research is necessary to fully elucidate the relationship between LWH and CVD.
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