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Job strain and masked hypertension
Xavier Trudel1, Chantal Brisson, Alain Milot
1Santé des populations: URESP, Centre de recherche FRSQ du Centre hospitalier affilié universitaire de Québec, 1050 chemin St-Foy, Québec city, Québec, QB, Canada G1S 4L8. xavier.trudel.1@ulaval.ca
Psychosomatic Medicine
|July 20, 2010
Summary
Psychosocial work characteristics, specifically job strain, are linked to masked hypertension in male white-collar workers. Active job situations may increase the risk of this condition.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Cardiovascular Epidemiology
- Psychosocial Factors
Background:
- Masked hypertension (MH) is a condition where blood pressure is normal during clinic visits but elevated during ambulatory monitoring.
- Psychosocial work characteristics are increasingly recognized as potential contributors to cardiovascular health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between psychosocial work characteristics and the prevalence of masked hypertension among white-collar workers.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 2,357 white-collar workers from three public organizations underwent workplace blood pressure measurements (manual and ambulatory).
- Masked hypertension was defined as manual BP <140/90 mm Hg and ambulatory BP ≥135/85 mm Hg.
- Job strain was assessed using the quadrant method and alternative formulations.
Main Results:
- For men, belonging to the 'active' job group (high demands, high decision latitude) was significantly associated with masked hypertension (aOR=2.07).
- No significant association between job strain and masked hypertension was found in women.
- The study included 2,357 workers, with 61% women and a mean age of 44 years.
Conclusions:
- Masked hypertension is associated with job strain in male white-collar workers.
- Individuals in 'active' job situations may have a higher likelihood of developing masked hypertension.
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