Have access already?

Get access to this chapter:

Or get access to the entire book:

Four: Epidemiology, Medical Disease, and OHP

DOI:

10.1891/9780826199683.0004

Abstract

This chapter examines the impact of psychosocial working conditions on medical-related outcomes, concentrating on cardiovascular disease (CVD). It explores the relation of psychosocial working conditions to musculoskeletal problems. The chapter examines three health-related outcomes: sickness absence, self-rated health, and fatigue. The term “CVD” refers to a set of conditions including atherosclerosis, ischemic heart disease, myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, and hypertension. The first general pathway from psychosocial working conditions to CVD is potentially through the health behaviors. The second general pathway involves chains of biological links from psychosocial stressors to CVD. The relation of psychosocial working conditions to depression and distress is not always acknowledged in research on working conditions and CVD. Research findings suggest that psychosocial factors, apart from the physical demands of the workplace, play a role in the development of musculoskeletal problems. The DC factors likely influence health beyond their impact on depression, heart disease, and musculoskeletal problems.