The aim of this study was to elucidate the relationship between occupational stress and risk factors for cardiovascular diseases.

The study subjects were 169 male workers aged over 40 who were employed in the shipbuilding industry. A self-reported questionnaire was used to assess the respondents' sociodemographics and occupational stress. Eight domains of occupational stress according to the Korean Occupational Stress Scale (KOSS) were used. We included blood pressure, lipid level (total cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL cholesterol), coagulation factors, pulse wave velocity and heart rate variability as possible cardiovascular risk factors.

In multiple regression analyses, job demand was associated with triglyceride level, pulse wave velocity and heart rate variability. Interpersonal conflict was related to total cholesterol. Job insecurity was related to heart rate variability. Organizational system was associated with blood pressure, total cholesterol, pulse wave velocity and heart rate variability. Lack of rewards was related to systolic blood pressure and pulse wave velocity.

These results indicate that occupational stress is associated with cardiovascular risk factors.