Work-Related Stress and Prevalence of Hypertension Among Females Working in Selected Foreign Banks in the Greater Accra Region, Ghana.

Abstract

Background: The increasing prevalence of hypertension is a significant global concern, particularly among working populations experiencing high levels of stress. The banking sector is characterized by high job demands, intense workloads, and tight deadlines, which often expose employees to considerable stress. Despite these challenges, there is limited data on the prevalence and association between work-related stress and hypertension among vulnerable groups like women in this industry. Aim/Objective: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between work-related stress and prevalence of hypertension among females working in selected foreign banks in Accra, Ghana. Methods: The study employed a quantitative cross-sectional design to investigate work-related stress and prevalence of hypertension among 228 female employees working in selected foreign banks in Accra, Ghana. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to assess information on demographics, work-related stress levels, lifestyle factors, and hypertension status. Hypertension and health status were assessed, while work-related stress levels were evaluated using a standardized stress scale (HSE management standard indicator tool). A multivariate logistic regression model was used to examine the relationship between work-related stress and prevalence of hypertension. STATA® Version 18 was used for all statistical analyses. Ethical approval was obtained from the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research. Results: The study examined the relationship between work-related stress and hypertension among female employees in selected foreign banks in Accra, Ghana. The findings revealed that 26% of respondents had been diagnosed with hypertension, with 46.67% of cases diagnosed within the past year. 45.6% of respondents experienced high stress and logistic regression analysis showed that these individuals were significantly more likely to develop hypertension (AOR = 2.10, 95% CI: 1.02–4.32, p = 0.043). Each additional year of age increased the odds of hypertension by 5% (AOR = 1.05, p = 0.021), while working more than 40 hours per week was also a significant risk factor (AOR = 1.60, p = 0.029). Using the HSE management standards indicator tool, the study identified that urgent action was needed for control, relationship, and change categories while “doing well” was indicated in the organizational role category. Conclusion: This study highlights a significant association between work-related stress and hypertension among female employees in foreign banks. High stress levels, longer job tenure, and extended work hours were key risk factors for hypertension. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as low physical activity, poor dietary habits, and insufficient sleep may contribute to overall health risks. These findings underscore the need for workplace interventions to reduce stress and promote employee well-being