Relationship between job strain and radial arterial wave reflection in middle-aged male workers

This study examined the relationship between job stain and radial arterial wave reflection as expressed by the augmentation index (AI), a marker of cardiovascular risk, in middle-aged male workers.

Radial AI was measured using automated applanation tonometry in 808 working men (mean age; 47+/-5 years) at a company in Kanagawa, Japan in 2007. An elevated AI represents the deterioration of arterial properties and increased cardiovascular risk. Job demand and job control (decision latitude) were evaluated by a self-administered, Brief Job Stress Questionnaire. High job strain was defined as the combination of high job demand and low job control.

In the entire study population, the mean+/-SD and the median of AI were 74+/-13% and 75%, respectively. High job strain was seen in 267 subjects. In a multiple logistic regression analysis with adjustment for multiple potential confounders, high job strain showed a significantly increased odds ratio (1.47, 95% CI; 1.04-2.09, P=0.029) for an elevated AI (> or =75%).

High job strain was significantly associated with an elevated radial AI. The measurement of AI may be useful when incorporated in workplace interventions to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, especially at sites where workers tend to perceive high job strain.