Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Two new studies look at role of personality and work demands in health and safety on the job

New research reveals that introverted firefighters are more likely to experience higher injury rates due to reluctance to call for assistance. The study also found that ignoring safety rules can lead to severe injuries and delayed recovery from work-related injuries, especially for married female firefighters. Additionally, chronic noi...

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Occupational Health Psychology·DateJul 15, 2001

Blood pressure during sleep may be important too

A Mayo Clinic study found that blood pressure levels differ equally between day and night, potentially increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. The researchers monitored 240 healthy people for 20 consecutive hours, revealing significant variations in blood pressure during sleep.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalAmerican Journal of Hypertension·DateMar 8, 2000

Aging hearts need social support

A recent study found that older adults with strong social connections have lower blood pressure and are less likely to develop heart disease. In contrast, those with low social support experience higher resting blood pressures, even at a younger age.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalAnnals of Behavioral Medicine·DateAug 31, 1999

Meditation decreases blood pressure

Researchers found that long-term Transcendental Meditation practitioners experience reduced systolic blood pressure and vasoconstriction during meditation. This study suggests that Transcendental Meditation may help prevent high blood pressure in African American youth by reducing risk factors for heart disease.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateAug 2, 1999

Women's Social Support Worth More Than Men's

A recent study found that women's social support is more effective than men's in reducing both men's and women's blood pressure under stress. The researchers discovered that female listeners provided a modest systolic blood pressure increase of 25mmHg, while male listeners caused an average increase of 32mmHg.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateMar 22, 1999

Childhood Loss Linked To Later Health Problems

Young children who lose a parent or experience poor family relationships may be more likely to develop increases in blood pressure and disruptions in hormone release later in life. Research suggests that early loss or lack of good quality family relationships may have a 'permanently' increased overall cardiovascular activity among adults.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalPsychosomatic Medicine·DateNov 23, 1998

Keeping Fit By Keeping The Faith

A study by Harold G. Koenig and colleagues found a significant connection between regular church attendance, Bible study, and lower blood pressure in older adults. The research, published in the International Journal of Psychiatry in Medicine, suggests that practicing religion in traditional ways may have health benefits.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalThe International Journal of Psychiatry in Medicine·DateAug 10, 1998

Space Shuttle

A new technique developed by Dr. John Absher may help prevent strokes among Americans with high blood pressure. By adapting a space shuttle technique that simulates zero gravity, doctors can determine the risk of stroke for patients taking medication to lower their blood pressure.