worker stress affects their health
June Zaccone
This study examines the association between precarious employment and stress among U.S. working-aged individuals using data from waves 4 (2008-2009) and 5 (2016-2018) of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health. Precarious employment (PES) was measured based on factors like low wages, work hours, job instability, and lack of benefits. Higher PES was associated with increased perceived stress and higher levels of C-reactive protein, a biological stress marker. The results suggest that precarious employment, a psychosocial stressor, may contribute to poor mental and physical health. The researchers recommend policies like improved job stability, better wages, and healthcare benefits to mitigate these effects and reduce health disparities.
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