How’s Your Blood Pressure…at Work?
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Widely known as the ‘silent killer’, high blood pressure or hypertension is more common than many realise, especially as many sufferers don’t exhibit any symptoms.
"High blood pressure or hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and stroke, as it increases the force of blood against the artery walls, which in turn can stiffen and damage your arteries. This then decreases the flow of blood and oxygen to your heart, raising the threat of heart attack and stroke," explains prominent cardiologist Dr Martin Mpe.
According to Dr Mpe, studies have further shown a strong correlation between work stress, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease (CVD).
"The effects of workplace stress from excessive workloads, long hours or high levels of pressure can manifest physically in a multitude of ways, such as a continuously elevated heart rate and raised blood pressure levels."
This is particularly concerning as CVD is a leading cause of death globally, although some four-fifths of premature deaths from heart disease can be prevented by making key lifestyle changes.
"To ensure employees' continued health and well-being, it's therefore important for both employers and for us as individuals to be more aware of the harmful effects of work stress, and to take active steps to better manage the issue," he advises.
Dr Mpe recommends that both employers and employees take the following steps to help alleviate workplace stress and combat hypertension in the process:
- Encourage a healthier work-life balance by allowing for more flexible working hours and remote work options, as well as encouraging and taking regular breaks and vacations.
- Foster a supportive work environment and encourage open communication, providing opportunities for all team members to feel valued and express their concerns and ideas.
- Provide and engage with stress management resources such as workshops, seminars, or training programmes that share coping strategies and relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing exercises.
- Implement and participate in workplace wellness programmes that include physical activity, nutrition, mental health support, and even smoking cessation resources.
- Set realistic expectations and workloads. Avoid overloading employees (or yourself!) with unnecessary tasks and do away with unrealistically tight deadlines.
In its mission to research and develop new treatment methods for hypertension and cardiovascular disease, Novartis South Africa is working hard to promote a healthy working environment – only for its own employees, but for all South Africans through education and advocacy.
"We understand that there is a direct connection between acute workplace stress and health issues. That's why we believe that promoting employee wellbeing and decreasing stress is not only the right thing to do for our associates but is also crucial to the success of our organisation," shares Country President Rachel O’Neale.
For example, in addition to offering hybrid working, the company sets an example for South African businesses by offering an internal employee assistance programme that provides all associates with 24/7 access to psychological support. What’s more, their Mental Health First Aid programme has a growing network of over 800 mental health first aiders from around the world.
"As top employers and industry frontrunners, we believe that it is our responsibility to safeguard against diseases such as hypertension and heart disease by cultivating a positive working environment. By safeguarding against diseases such as heart disease and hypertension, we can set an example for others while ensuring we maintain a healthy, productive workforce that is ready to lead the way in advancing healthcare solutions and breakthrough medicines for patients,” concludes O’Neale.
