Stress at Work Linked to Higher Risk of Diabetes

Researchers examined data of 3,730 non-diabetic petroleum industry Chinese workers over a period of 12 years and found that those who experienced stressful tasks on the job were 57% more likely to develop diabetes.

The biggest contributors included feeling overloaded with work, unclear about expectations and responsibilities of the job, and physical labour. In addition, workers who had reduced recreational time and coping resources such as social support from family and friends had a 68% increased risk of getting diabetes.

Among coping resources that influenced the risk of diabetes, decline in self-care and rational coping skills seemed to make the most difference.

Thus, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and a healthy weight, even during turbulent periods at work.