Nowadays, people prioritize their careers and often work long hours. Working long hours may bring success, but it can come at a cost to their health. A joint study by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Labour Organization (ILO), published in the journal Environment International, warns against this.
The study, published in the journal Environment International, analyzed data from 194 countries between 2000 and 2016. Researchers focused on the health of people who work 55 hours or more per week, comparing them with those who work 35 to 40 hours per week. Research suggests that the optimal range for health is approximately 35-40 hours per week. Working more than this amount increases health risks, and working 55 hours or more per week is directly linked to a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
According to the study, people working 55 hours or more a week were found to have a higher risk of ischemic heart disease and stroke. WHO/ILO estimates that in 2016, approximately 745,000 people died worldwide from stroke and heart disease due to long working hours.
The list of diseases is not limited to heart disease and stroke. Overworking disrupts your sleep and makes you feel tired all the time. Excessive work stress can also lead to anxiety and depression. Work pressure can also increase your blood pressure. It also reduces productivity and concentration.