Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) continue to rank among the leading causes of mortality worldwide. In recent decades, increasing attention has been directed toward exploring occupation-related factors that may contribute to the onset and progression of these conditions. This article investigates the influence of various occupational factors—such as physical and psychoemotional stress, work schedules, and exposure to harmful agents—on cardiovascular health.

Contemporary working environments, particularly in rapidly developing economic sectors, are characterized by heightened stress levels, extended working hours, and reduced physical activity. These conditions have a direct impact on the health of the working population, notably on the functioning and integrity of the cardiovascular system.

Major Occupational Risk Factors:

1.  Chronic Stress: Prolonged exposure to stress, which is prevalent in various professions—such as healthcare workers, educators, and law enforcement personnel—leads to elevated cortisol levels and contributes to the development of arterial hypertension, atherosclerosis, and coronary heart disease.

2.  Physical Inactivity and Excessive Physical Exertion: Occupations involving prolonged sedentary behavior (e.g., office workers, drivers) are associated with an increased risk of obesity, hypertension, and lipid metabolism disorders. Conversely, excessive physical exertion, particularly among industrial workers, may also adversely affect cardiovascular health, especially in the absence of preventive measures and adequate medical supervision.

3.  Disruption of Work-Rest Cycles: Night shifts, rotating schedules, and frequent overwork disrupt circadian rhythms and hormonal balance, which may impair vascular tone and elevate the risk factors for cardiovascular diseases.

4.  Exposure to Harmful Substances: Occupational exposure to toxic agents (e.g., heavy metals, solvents) may lead to oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, and subsequent damage to the vascular endothelium.

5.  Psychosocial Factors: Dissatisfaction with working conditions, limited social support, and feelings of helplessness and insecurity in the workplace are also linked to an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease.

Prevention and Recommendations

Optimization of Working Conditions: Measures should include reducing stress levels, introducing flexible work schedules, and enhancing the team microclimate. Regular preventive medical examinations for employees are essential.

Health Promotion Programs: Initiatives such as workplace physical activity, participation in sports, and the promotion of healthy nutrition should be encouraged.

Educational Activities: Increasing employee awareness of occupational health risks and strategies for their mitigation is critical.

Occupational activity plays a significant role in the development of cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, identifying occupational risk factors and implementing targeted preventive measures are key components of protecting employee health. The creation of a healthy work environment and the promotion of a healthy lifestyle should be prioritized by both employers and the healthcare system.

Isroilov M.S. – Assistant at the department of public health and medical statistics with the course of history of medicine