Burnout: a threat to the heart

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MunichBurnout not only stresses the soul, but apparently also dramatically increases the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). Plaques formed in the coronary arteries, which could lead to chest tightness and heart attacks, Israeli researchers from Tel Aviv University's Faculty of Management report.

Results "alarming"

The study included 8,838 healthy workers (men and women) between 19 and 67 years of age. Her health was monitored for almost three and a half years. Each subject was examined for burnout and signs of diseased coronary arteries (CHD). The researchers also checked risk factors such as age, gender, heart disease in the family, and smoking.

A total of 93 people were identified with CHD. Burnout was associated with a 40 percent higher risk of developing CHD. But the 20 percent of participants with the highest burnout scores even have a 79 percent higher risk of clogged heart arteries. The results are "alarming" and much more dramatic than expected, says study director Dr. Sharon Toker. If you were to follow the test subjects over an even longer period of time, the results would probably be even more extreme, says Toker.

Burnout dangerous for the heart

Burnout is therefore a stronger risk factor for CHD than many classic factors such as smoking, increased blood lipid levels or lack of exercise. The results of the study are interesting for prevention, say the researchers. Patients suffering from burnout should also be examined for signs of CHD.

Burnout is a state of physical, emotional and mental exhaustion that is triggered by stress, high workload, lack of control at work, lack of emotional support and long working hours. Previous studies have shown that burnout is linked to obesity, insomnia, and anxiety disorders. (in the)

Source: Toker, S. et al .: “Burnout and Risk of Coronary Heart Disease: A Prospective Study of 8838 Employees”, Psychosomatic Medicine, 2012;

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