Reducing health inequalities
Since 1985, the Whitehall II study has tracked the effects of stress, job security, work-life balance and a range of lifestyle factors on the health of more than 10,000 civil servants working in central London, with the aim of reducing health inequalities in society. In 2004/2005, the MRC-funded University College London scientists reported a wide range of results. Stress at work and home increased the risk of heart disease, while a good work-life balance was linked to better mental health. The researchers also found that people who work while they are sick may have a higher risk of heart attacks, and that, while South Asian people are more likely to develop heart disease, this is not due to poorer access to medical investigation and treatment. In fact, this group were more likely to undergo investigative procedures and take preventative medications.
Study website: www.ucl.ac.uk/whitehallII/