Flexible work lowers heart risk – Harvard study

MASSACHUSETTS, UNITED STATES — A new Harvard study reveals that workplace flexibility significantly reduces employees’ risk of heart disease, the leading cause of death in America. 

Published in the American Journal of Public Health, the research found that interventions allowing workers more control over scheduling and supporting personal lives lowered cardiovascular risks, especially for those over 45 and already at higher risk.

Led by Harvard’s Dr. Lisa Berkman and Penn State’s Dr. Orfeu Buxton, the study trained over 1,500 employees at an IT company and long-term care provider to implement flexible policies. 

While not significantly affecting overall employee health, notable improvements occurred for higher-risk individuals. 

“When stressful workplace conditions and work-family conflict were mitigated, we saw a reduction in the risk of cardiovascular disease among more vulnerable employees, without any negative impact on their productivity,” said Berkman in The Harvard Gazette.

“These findings could be particularly consequential for low- and middle-wage workers who traditionally have less control over their schedules and job demands and are subject to greater health inequities.” 

The research is particularly relevant for lower-wage workers facing greater health inequities and less schedule control. 

As companies navigate evolving workplace dynamics, the study presents compelling evidence that flexible policies can reduce stress and improve wellbeing.

Previous studies revealed that flexible work hours can produce better results, increase employee retention and improve work culture, but an expert warns that embracing this type of work may hinder Gen Z employees from becoming CEOs.