News - Hypertension Week of June 29, 2003/ Vol. 2 No. 26

Study: Bad Bosses Can Drive Up Blood Pressure

Unfair and unreasonable bosses can drive up the blood pressure of employees to unhealthy levels and increase their risk of a heart attack or stroke over the long-term, according to researchers.

As reported in the June issue of the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, eight female healthcare assistants between the ages of 18 and 45 who were supervised by nurses took part in a study in which they were asked to score the interpersonal style of their supervisors.

The researchers took readings from blood pressure monitors worn by the assistants every 30 minutes for 12 hours over three working days. When working for a supervisor they considered unfair, the assistants registered an increase of 15 mg Hg systolic and 7 mm Hg diastolic.

An increase of 10 mm Hg in systolic and 5 mm Hg in diastolic blood pressure is associated with a 16 percent increased risk of coronary heart disease and a 38 percent increased risk of stroke, according to the researchers.

However, the assistants registered a slight decrease in blood pressure when supervised by someone they considered fair. Fairness was defined as the giving of timely feedback, particularly praising a job well done, showing trust and respect, being consistent, impartial and adaptable.

The authors conclude that the personal style of a boss can be a workplace stressor and undermine health and well-being.

"A workplace characterised by fairness, empowerment and consideration is likely to provide one inexpensive strategy for reducing the risk of cardiovascular disorders," the researchers concluded.

Other sources: Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 2003; 60: 468-74