Effect of Chronic Work Stress on Overall Health; A meta-analysis
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.60127/sjms.4.4.2026.97Keywords:
Chronic Work Stress, Occupational Health, HPA Axis, Hypercortisolemia, Burnout, Cardiovascular Disease, Mental Health, Socioeconomic Burden, Workplace InterventionsAbstract
Objectives: This comprehensive research project aims to: 1) Synthesize the current global and local scientific literature on the physiological and psychological sequelae of chronic work stress; 2) Elucidate the evidence-based associations between work stress and specific health outcomes, including cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes, and mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and burnout syndrome; and 3) Evaluate the resultant socioeconomic burdens on healthcare systems and organizations, while also reviewing the efficacy of existing preventive and interventional strategies.
Methodology: A systematic narrative review methodology was employed. Major academic databases—including PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science—were searched for peer-reviewed articles, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews published between 2000 and 2023. Both global and regionally-specific studies were included to provide a comprehensive perspective. The findings were analyzed thematically to identify consistent patterns, mechanisms, and gaps in the literature.
Results: The review confirms a strong and consistent body of evidence linking chronic work stress to detrimental health outcomes. Key findings include: a significantly elevated risk for hypertension, atherosclerosis, and acute cardiovascular events; a pronounced correlation with the development of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes; and a high prevalence of major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and clinical burnout. The socioeconomic analysis reveals substantial costs related to absenteeism, presenteeism, employee turnover, and rising healthcare expenditures. While organizational interventions (e.g., job redesign, stress management programs) show promise, their implementation remains inconsistent.
Conclusion: Chronic work stress is a formidable etiological agent in the development of both physical and mental illness, with profound human and economic costs.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Mohammad Mateen Shahid (Author)
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