10.02.2011, 12:40 3536

Job strain increases women's heart attack risk

Women who report having high levels of job stress appear to be at 40% increased risk of having a heart attack, compared with women who report less stress at work, Kazakhstan Today reports.

Almaty. February 10. Kazakhstan Today - Women who report having high levels of job stress appear to be at 40% increased risk of having a heart attack, compared with women who report less stress at work, Kazakhstan Today reports.

Women with highly stressful jobs are 40 percent more likely to develop heart disease than their less-stressed colleagues, a U.S. newsletter says, United Press International reported.

The February issue of Harvard Women's Health Watch says it is unclear how job strain worsens cardiac health in women.

However, the stress may aggravate inflammation in coronary arteries, leading to blood clots. In addition, stress makes it harder to practice heart-healthy habits, such as exercising, eating right, not smoking and getting enough sleep, the newsletter says.

"Stress-induced heart disease isn't unique to the workplace. Many women have multiple jobs such as caring for children and for aging parents, while running a household and working outside the home - without the resources to manage them all," Harvard Women's Health Watch says.

These situations may be unavoidable, but there are ways to alleviate stress including:

- Foster mutually supportive relationships.

- Get regular exercise. It strengthens the heart, reduces anxiety and depression, and improves sleep.

- Practice relaxation techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing.

--Seek help from a mental-health professional.

This information may not be reproduced without reference to Kazakhstan Today. Copyright of materials of News Agency Kazakhstan Today.

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