Occupational stress meditate the association between occupational-related factors and hypertension: Findings based on welders.

Introduction

Welders are at risk of elevated blood pressure, with hypertension (HTN) linked to occupational hazards and stress. This cross-sectional study aimed to explore the associations among occupational factors, stress, and HTN in welders.

Methods

2,575 welders were recruited. Demographic, occupational data and occupational stress were collected. Regression analyses and path analysis were used to examine associations and mediating effects.

Results

Monthly income was inversely linked to HTN (OR=0.80), whereas longer working service (OR=1.20), confined space work (OR=1.64), shift work (OR=1.31), higher occupational role stress (OR=1.39), and higher personal strain (OR=1.48) were associated with an increased risk of HTN. Occupational stress mediated 14.00% of the association between occupational characteristics and HTN.

Conclusion

Adverse occupational conditions affect HTN directly and indirectly through occupational stress, which has direct and mediating effects on HTN in welders.