Work-Life Factors and Cardiovascular Disease in Paediatric Occupational Therapists

Abstract

Introduction: With cardiovascular disease (CVD) increasing for female workers, there is a need to understand the factors associated with CVD in members of the occupational therapy, predominantly female, profession. The association between burnout and physical health effects, such as CVD, has not been investigated in paediatric occupational therapists. Method: Associations between CVD and demographic and work-life factors were investigated in a nationwide postal survey of 486 paediatric occupational therapists. Results: The prevalence of CVD in the study population was 11.02%. Private practitioners, older therapists and those with additional self-reported health problems from respiratory disease had increased odds of reporting CVD. In contrast, lower odds of CVD were found for therapists with access to social support, a secure attachment style and income satisfaction. Conclusion: Understanding demographic, personal and work-related variables associated with CVD in paediatric occupational therapists provides valuable information about members of the profession. The identification of potentially modifiable work-life factors that are inversely associated with CVD, such as social support and having a secure attachment style, suggests further avenues for research and intervention. Ongoing vigilance, and education directed towards self-care as well as client care, is required to ensure optimal health for colleagues.