WIREDGOV

Researchers have suggested that unfit men who work long hours are more likely to die from heart disease than those who are fitter, or work shorter hours.

Our senior cardiac nurse, Cathy Ross, said: “The study identified that men in general who work between 41 and 45 hours a week can increase their risk of dying from coronary heart disease by 59% compared with those working less than 40 hours a week. Interestingly, there was no increase in risk for men who worked more than 45 hours a week if they were physically fit.

“We already know that working long hours can increase blood pressure, a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Being physically active helps to control your blood pressure and previous studies have shown that being physically fit can help you cope with the demands of long hours, physically demanding jobs and shift work.

“This study adds to these findings by demonstrating that men who are physically active as part of their everyday life do not increase their risk of coronary heart disease, irrespective of the number of hours they work.

“Being physically active for 30 minutes five times or more a week will help to keep your heart healthy. If you do work long hours, you can build physical activity into your everyday life by walking or cycling to work, taking the stairs instead of the lift and taking a brisk walk at lunchtime.”

More information:

• Find simple ways you can be healthier at work
• Read the full study published in Heart journal.