A stress gene has been linked to a heightened risk of dying as a result of a heart attack or heart disease. US researchers examined a single DNA letter change in the human genome, that has been associated with an increased vulnerability to the effects of stress.
The team found that heart patients with the genetic change had 38% increased risk of suffering a heart attack or dying from heart disease after 7 years of follow-up when compared with those without. The study also took into account factors including age, smoking and obesity.
Scientists say that this signifies that stress management strategies could lower the number of deaths and disabilities from heart attacks.
The British Heart Foundation say the findings add to evidence that stress may directly increase the risk of heart disease.
About one in 10 of men and 3 per cent of women in the 6,000 heart patients examined in the study had the genetic change which links to handling emotional stress badly.
If you feel that you have been unfairly pressured at work, which has led to a lot of stress for you then you might be entitled to claim against your employer. To make an enquiry, visit our dedicated website www.stress-at-work.net or call 0800 028 2060 to talk to one of our helpful team.