This global study was the first to assess the life and health risks associated with long-term employment. Data were collected from dozens of studies involving hundreds of thousands of people from 2000 to 2016.
“Working 55 hours or more per week is a serious health hazard. It is time for all of us – governments, employers and employees – to realize that long hours of work can lead to premature death,” the WHO head of the environment commented on the study. climate change and health care Maria Neira.
As the scientists note, working 55 or more hours a week increases the risk of strokes by 35%, the risk of coronary heart disease by 17%, compared to working 35 to 40 hours.
The study found that from 2000 to 2016, the number of deaths from heart disease associated with long hours of work increased by 42%. The number of strokes – by 19%.
The WHO also pointed out that overtime leads to a third of “occupational” diseases. And the coronavirus pandemic is only accelerating the development of factors that contribute to the trend towards longer working hours.
“Remote work has become the norm in many areas, often blurring the lines between home and work. In addition, many companies have had to scale back or close certain operations to save money, and people who still get paid end up working more hours. No work is worth the risk of stroke or heart attack, “said WHO Director General Tedros Ghebreyesus.
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