Occupational stress resulting from a combination of high work demands and
low job decision latitude is linked with causation of hypertension in the modern
society. Psychological and social factors related to occupation are known to interact
with physical and genetic factors in disease pathogenesis and its manifestations. In this
chapter, the possible association between job strain and blood pressure levels in various
types of occupation and its importance in clinical practice have been critically
analyzed. Several authors have attempted to arrive at some consensus on the
relationship between occupational stress and hypertension and thus formulate potential
therapeutic and preventive measures. Furthermore, this chapter summarises the current
evidence-based knowledge on occupational aspects of hypertension according to
different occupations. The psychosocial effects on hypertension and measures to reduce
occupational stress have also been outlined.
Keywords: Blood pressure, Cardiovascular diseases, Decision latitude, Diastolic
hypertension, Environmental factors, Healthcare workers, Heart disease,
Hypertension, Job satisfaction, Job strain, Lifestyle, Occupational stress,
Pathophysiology, Risk factors, Systolic hypertension, Teachers, Vehicle drivers,
White-collar workers, Work demands, Work environment.
