Blood pressure and work-related stress in policemen

Introduction
Stress constitutes one of the inseparable characteristics of policemen’s occupation. Work-related chronic stress is a risk factor of ischemic heart disease and arterial hypertension, but only a few studies were performed in this occupational group.
The aim of the study was to assess the effect of the occupational stress on circulatory function in the policemen.

Methods
The examinations were performed in one of the regions of Poland. All policemen in that region (126 people, 9 women and 117 men, aged 37.8±7.3 years, mean employment period 14.4±7.0 years,) were examined. Due to the small number of women, the data were analysed jointly.Anamnesis with interview on the risk factors of cardiovascular diseases: lifestyle, nutritional habits, and office blood pressure measurement were performed. Stress assessment comprised: occupational and life stress evaluation using Subjective Work Assessment Questionnaire and Cohen Perceived Stress Scale. 24-h arterial blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) during normal working day was carried up.

Results
Arterial hypertension was reported by 32 people, in 45 people it was detected during medical examination. 60% subjects reported cardiac subjective symptoms. 32.5% subjects were smokers, almost all (91%) reported intake of strong alcohol. Mean body mass index (BMI) was 27.6±4.1, 66% subjects had overweight or obesity. Life stress and work-related stress were high (34.9 ±4.8 and 128.0±33.3 respectively). Mean systolic (BPS) and diastolic(BPD) blood pressure during 24h, day and night were within the normal range; however, 42% of the subjects had too high BP values in the ABPM. Too low (<10%) night-time BPS or BPD drop were noted in 28% and 24% subjects (respectively), while 30% and 42% subjects showed excessive drop BP (>20%).

Discussion
Office and 24-h blood pressure values and the level of work-related stress were higher than in other occupational groups. Suitable steps must be undertaken in policemen to reduce the cardiovascular risk factors and stress.