Adverse Health Consequences - A Result of Long Work Hours: A Review of The Current Evidence
Journal Title: Indian Journal of Nutrition - Year 2016, Vol 3, Issue 1
Abstract
Study background: Research evidence is mounting that link long work hours to a wide range of risk to health of the working population. In deference to the sedentary nature of work today and the invariably increasing stress levels, the risk of chronic disease amongst workforce has been greater than before. The purpose of this review paper is to give a concise summary of the possible negative health effects (with relevance to upcoming lifestyle diseases) of long working hours that have been reported in the literature. Method: Relevant papers for this review were identified using online open access databases (Pubmed, Google Scholar etc), internet searches, published studies and journals covering the period from 1997 onwards. Where possible, the search was based on abstracts, titles and keywords to identify relevant papers. Only those papers which referred to long working hours were considered, excluding shift work. Results: The results indicate that the changing nature of work and its environment have made a noticeable impact on individual’s health and well being. Conclusion: Although in recent years, interest in scientific research in health problems associated with various components of occupational exposure have intensified, the number of studies concerning the different areas of health is still low and the results are often contradictory and inconclusive. No major work has been done in India in the respective field. Nonetheless, it is agreed that the current evidence is sufficient to raise concerns about a possible link between long work hours and lifestyle diseases, especially for hours exceeding 48 to 50 a week.
Authors and Affiliations
Divya Seth
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