The pursuit of success often drives many to work extensive hours, but this practice might compromise health, according to neurologist Dr. Sudhir Kumar. In a detailed post dated July 15, Dr. Kumar elaborates on research findings concerning optimal work hours, the health risks linked to excessive work, and strategies for achieving a balanced work-life routine. Overworking, he explains, significantly elevates the risks of stroke and heart disease.
Dr. Kumar highlights scientific studies indicating that working between 35 to 40 hours a week is generally the healthiest. Once this threshold is exceeded, the associated health risks rise sharply, with working 55 hours or more each week being particularly hazardous for cardiovascular health. Specifically, individuals clocking in 55 hours or more are confronted with a 35% greater risk of stroke and a 17% increased risk of ischemic heart disease when compared to those working 35-40 hours weekly.
Further emphasizing the gravity of overworking, Dr. Kumar references data from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Labour Organization (ILO). In 2016 alone, long working hours were linked to approximately 745,000 global deaths due to stroke and heart disease. Beyond these grave cardiovascular implications, prolonged work hours contribute to inadequate sleep, increased fatigue, burnout, and mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression. These issues can also lead to higher blood pressure, decreased productivity and focus, as well as an uptick in workplace accidents and mistakes, while also diminishing time available for exercise, proper nutrition, and family engagements.
Despite these findings, Dr. Kumar clarifies that the solution isn’t merely to reduce working hours. Instead, he advocates for smarter working and enhanced recovery practices. To safeguard health and maintain productivity, he suggests aiming for a workweek of 35–40 hours when possible, avoiding the habit of consistently working over 55 hours, incorporating regular breaks for movement, ensuring 7-9 hours of sleep nightly, engaging in regular physical activity, and dedicating at least one day a week to personal recovery and family life.
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Kumar underscores that success should be viewed as a marathon rather than a sprint, emphasizing that health preservation is one of the most valuable investments for sustaining a lengthy and productive career.