Effects of Occupational Stress on Blood Lipids, Blood Sugar and Immune Function of Doctors

Abstract

Background: We aimed to investigate the effects of occupational stress on blood lipids, blood glucose and immune function of doctors.

Methods: In 2017, 1291 doctors (565 males, 726 females) in The First Hospital Affiliated with Harbin Medical University (Harbin, China) were enrolled based on the principle of convenience of sampling and cluster sampling. Questionnaires were used to investigate demographic characteristics and occupational stress related factors. Level of glycated hemoglobin was detected by immunoturbidimetric method. Concentration of triglyceride was determined by        glycerol phosphate oxidase end point method. Total cholesterol concentration in serum was determined by total cholesterol oxidase end point method. Concentration of serum immunoglobulin was detected by immunoturbidimetry.

Results: Levels of glycated hemoglobin and triglyceride in high tension group were higher than those in the low tension group. Levels of IgG and IgM in high tension group were lower than those in low tension group. The risk of elevated glycated hemoglobin levels in > 50-yr-old age group was higher than that of the =<35-yr-old age group. Those in the high coping strategy group was higher in the low coping strategy group. The risk of elevated total cholesterol levels in drinkers is 1.158 times that of non-drinkers. The risk of IgG concentration reduction in smokers was 0.428 times that of non-smokers. The risk of a decrease in IgA concentration in doctors with good sleep quality is 1.527 times that of those with poor sleep quality.

Conclusion: Occupational stress can lead to increased blood lipids and sugar levels as well suppression of immune function in doctors.