Work Stress May Lead To Diabetes

Filed in archive Lifestyle on November 15, 2006

You've heard the expression: "All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy." And it can do much worse, as stress--so often found at work--leads to many types of illnesses. Researchers are now pointing specifically to 'overworking' as a direct lead-in to diabetes.

Of the workers, 17 developed type 2 diabetes during the study period. The researchers found that people who experienced job burnout were 1.84 times more likely to become diabetic, even when factors like age, sex and obesity were taken into account.

Indeed, stress can disrupt the body's ability to process glucose, especially in people whose genetics make them vulnerable, said Richard Surwit, chief of the Division of Medical Psychology at Duke University Medical Center.

There's never been a better reason to slow down and evaluate your job: is it causing you unnecessary stress? Is it worth the price of your health?