Abstract:
This case-control research aimed to study the relationship between job stress and stroke occurrence. The sample was 60 patients with first presentation of stroke within 1 month. The control group was working age people who did not have a stroke. The sample was matched up with the control group that has the same sex and job characteristics. The age difference was not more than 3 years. Both groups were between 20-59 years old. They must have worked regularly for at least 6 months before they had a stroke. Job stress was assessed using Job Demand-Control Model and Effort-Reward Imbalance Model. The relationships between job stress and stroke were analyzed with the use of Chi-square, simple & multiple logistic regressions. The findings revealed that when compared stroke patients with the control group by controlled personal and job characteristics variables, job stress was significantly correlated with the occurrence of stroke in working age. It was found that High strain job, risk of stroke was 2.39 times (OR=2.39, 95%CI=1.25-4.57, p=0.008) that of Low strain job. High ERI ratio, risk of stroke was 3.19 times (OR=3.19, 95%CI=1.49-6.80, p=0.003) that of low ERI ratio. High Effort, risk of stroke was 2.28 times (OR= 2.28, 95%CI=1.24-4.18, p= 0.008) that of low Effort. High Overcommitment, the risk of stroke was 2.22 times (OR= 2.22, 95%CI=1.16-4.24, p= 0.016) that of low commitment. The results of the study suggested that the administrations and occupational health care provider in the workplace should have surveillance and screening on job stress. As well as health promotion on job stress management and job stress reduction programs for employees should be implemented to prevent the risk of stroke occurrence.