Stroke Association statement on research showing longer working hours increases risk of stroke

Recent research published in The Lancet showed working 55 hours or more per week is linked to a 33% greater risk of stroke compared with working a standard 35 to 40 hour week. It is the largest study in this field so far involving over 600000 individuals.

Commenting on the research findings Dr Shamim Quadir, Research Communications Manager at the Stroke Association, said:

“This important study suggests that working more than a 35-40 hour work-week increases your risk of stroke.  It indicates that working 55 hours or more a week is linked to a significantly higher risk of stroke; 33%, compared to working standard hours.

“It is difficult to establish what may cause this link between working long hours and stroke risk.  Nevertheless, the findings of the study underline how important it is to look after your health to help prevent a stroke. This includes taking regular exercise and eating a healthy, balanced diet.  Working long hours can involve sitting for long periods of time, experiencing stress and leads to less time available to look after yourself.  There is also some evidence suggesting that people who work long hours tend to drink more heavily - which is a known risk factor for stroke.

“Anyone with concerns about their risk of stroke should talk to their GP or health professional.”