The life-threatening link between work stress and hypertension

Known as the “silent killer”, high blood pressure or hypertension is more common than many realize – especially as many sufferers do not exhibit any symptoms.¹ World Hypertension Day, celebrated on 17 May each year, is therefore the ideal time to shine a light on this potentially life-threatening condition, say health experts.

“High blood pressure or hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and stroke, as it increases the force of blood against the artery walls, which in turn can stiffen and damage your arteries.¹ This then decreases the flow of blood and oxygen to your heart, raising the threat of heart attack and stroke,” explains Dr Martin Mpe, a prominent cardiologist.¹

According to Dr Mpe, studies have further shown a strong correlation between work stress, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease (CVD).² “The effects of workplace stress from excessive workloads, long hours or high levels of pressure can manifest physically in a multitude of ways, such as a continuously elevated heart rate and raised blood pressure levels.”²

 This is particularly concerning as CVD is a leading cause of death globally, although some four-fifths of premature deaths from heart disease can be prevented by making key lifestyle changes.³

 “To ensure employees’ continued health and well-being, it’s therefore important for both employers and for us as individuals to be more aware of the harmful effects of work stress, and to take active steps to better manage the issue,” he says.

How employers can play an active role in alleviating stress

Dr Mpe recommends that employers take the following steps to help alleviate workplace stress and combat hypertension in the process:⁴

1. Encourage a healthier work-life balance by allowing for more flexible working hours, remote work options, and encouraging employees to take regular breaks and vacations. 
2. Foster a supportive work environment and encourage open communication, provide opportunities for employees to express their concerns and ideas, and make them feel valued.
3. Provide stress management resources such as stress management workshops, seminars, or training programs which will help teach employees coping strategies and relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing exercises.
4. Implement workplace wellness programs that include physical activity, nutrition, mental health support, and smoking cessation resources.
5. Set realistic expectations and workloads. Avoid overloading employees with unnecessary tasks and do away with unrealistically tight deadlines.

Leading the way in nurturing employee well-being

Hypertension and cardiovascular disease are just some of the key focus areas for global pharmaceutical company Novartis in its mission to research and develop new treatment methods for serious diseases. As such, it has likewise recognized the importance of promoting a healthy working environment for its associates, and has prioritized managing the effects of work-related stress, explains Novartis South Africa Country President Rachel O’Neale.

“We understand that there is a direct connection between acute workplace stress and health issues. That’s why we believe that promoting employee well-being and decreasing stress is not only the right thing to do for our associates, but is also crucial to the success of our organization,” she says.

For example, in addition to offering hybrid working, Novartis offers an internal employee assistance program which provides all associates with 24/7 access to psychological support. Additionally, its Mental Health First Aid program has a growing network of over 800 mental health first aiders from around the world. ^5,6

“As top employers and industry frontrunners, Novartis believes that it is our responsibility to safeguard against diseases such as hypertension and heart disease through cultivating a positive working environment. By safeguarding against diseases such as heart disease and hypertension, we can set the example for others, while ensuring we maintain a healthy, productive workforce that is ready to lead the way in advancing healthcare solutions and breakthrough medicines for patients,” adds O’Neale.

As we mark World Hypertension Day, she calls on all South African employers to take the opportunity to recognize the seriousness of hypertension and the impact it can have on the health and well-being of employees.

“Employers have a critical role to play in protecting against this disease. Through raising awareness about hypertension, providing education and resources, and creating supportive environments that prioritize employee needs, we can lead the way in managing work stress and creating better futures for all,” she concludes.

References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About High Blood Pressure. 2023. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/bloodpressure/about.htm#:~:text=High%20blood%20pressure%2C%20also%20called,blood%20pressure%20(or%20hypertension. Accessed 5 May 2023.
2. Vrijkotte TGM, Van Doornen LJP, De Geus EJC. Effects of work stress on ambulatory blood pressure, heart rate, and heart rate variability. Hypertension. 2000;35(4):880-6. https://doi.org/10.1161/01.hyp.35.4.880.
3. Byrne J, Eksteen G, Crickmore C. The Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa – Cardiovascular disease statistics reference document. 2016. Available from: https://www.heartfoundation.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/CVD-Stats-Reference-Document-2016-FOR-MEDIA-1.pdf. Accessed 5 May 2023.
4. Society for Human Resource Management – How can employers help to reduce stress in the workplace? 2023. Available from: https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/tools-and-samples/hr-qa/pages/reducing-stress-in-the-workplace.aspx. Accessed 5 May 2023
5. Novartis. We are inspiring our people. 2023. Available from: https://www.novartis.com/about/strategy/people-and-culture/we-are-inspiring-our-people. Accessed 5 May 2023
6. Novartis. Wellbeing. 2023. Available from: https://www.novartis.com/careers/wellbeing. Accessed 5 May 2023