Working Long Hours Linked to Higher Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke

A study by the World Health Organization (WHO) has revealed a direct link between overworking and a significantly higher risk of heart attack and stroke. Dr. Amy Crawford-Faucher, a family physician, explained in an interview with CBS News: "The more hours you work, the more cortisol — your body’s stress hormone — is released, which negatively affects your heart and blood vessels."

The study emphasizes that overworking doesn’t just increase stress levels, but also disrupts healthy routines. "When you work too much, you often don’t eat well, don’t get enough sleep, and certainly don’t exercise," says Dr. Crawford-Faucher. She adds that "work overload can impair your ability to cope with frustration, worsen feelings of anxiety and depression, and lead to irritability and emotional burnout."

Supporting this, a University of California, Berkeley study found that employee performance remains stable and strong up to about 50 working hours per week. Beyond that, performance drops significantly. "Sometimes it’s crucial to step back, go for a short walk, or simply disconnect to be a more effective and healthier employee," she advises.

Dr. Crawford-Faucher also stresses the importance of fully disconnecting from work: "Take at least two hours in the evening to be with family and friends. Don’t check emails or engage in work-related tasks." This downtime gives the brain a chance to rest and reset, leading to better performance upon return.

She concludes by noting that maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential, not only for long-term physical and mental health but also for sustaining high performance at work over time.