[Job strain and cardiovascular diseases: epidemiologic evidence and prevention]

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Cardiovascular Epidemiology
• Psychosocial Factors in Health

Context:

• Growing evidence links job strain (JS) to cardiovascular diseases (CVD).
• Existing models like demand-control and effort-reward imbalance are central to understanding this relationship.
• Discrepancies exist across socio-cultural contexts, genders, and socio-occupational groups.

Purpose:

• To review recent evidence on the association between job strain and cardiovascular diseases.
• To examine specific outcomes including hypertension, coronary heart disease (CHD), atherosclerosis, and stroke.
• To highlight limitations in current research and suggest future directions.

Summary:

• Studies indicate a positive association between JS and CVD, with a meta-analysis showing a 50% increased CHD risk in men with high JS.
• Evidence for women is less robust, and study design limitations contribute to result discrepancies.
• Emerging research explores gene-environment interactions, specifically JS and genetic factors influencing blood pressure.

Impact:

• Findings underscore the need for workplace interventions to mitigate JS and improve work environments.
• Promoting individual coping strategies and addressing organizational stressors are crucial for cardiovascular health.
• This research supports proactive public health initiatives in occupational settings.