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Updated: May 16, 2026

Measuring Biophysical and Psychological Stress Levels Following Visitation to Three Locations with Differing Levels of Nature
Published on: June 19, 2019
Perceived stress and stress-related parameters.
G Tomei1, A Sancini, A Capozzella
1Department of Psychiatric and Psychological Science, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy. franc.tomei@alice.it
Occupational exposure to urban stressors significantly impacts perceived stress in outdoor workers, particularly women and younger individuals. Increased stress correlates with higher prolactin levels and consumption of coffee, chocolate, and cigarettes.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Environmental Medicine
- Psychosocial Stressors
Background:
- Urban outdoor workers face physical, chemical, and psychosocial stressors.
- Assessing perceived stress and its relation to physiological markers is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate occupational stressors' impact on perceived stress in outdoor workers.
- To examine correlations between perceived stress and stress-related parameters.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire developed by the research group was used.
- A sample of 480 outdoor workers (342 male, 138 female) was evaluated.
- Subjects were categorized into three groups based on questionnaire scores.
Main Results:
- Approximately 60% of workers reported moderate to severe stress.
- Female workers and younger subjects showed a higher prevalence of stress.
- Perceived stress correlated significantly with increased prolactin, coffee, chocolate, and cigarette consumption.
Conclusions:
- Urban physical, chemical, and psychosocial stressors influence perceived stress in outdoor workers.
- The developed questionnaire is a valuable tool for physician-led health surveillance.
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