Biomarkers of stress in office workers in the gas industry

• Andrey G. Obrezan
• Lyudmila A. Sharonova

Abstract

Every human experiences stress in the course of his life. However, the body’s sensitivity to stress varies, as does stress tolerance – the ability of the body to resist to constant stress for long periods of time. Office workers are characterised by a number of risk factors for prolonged exposure to stress.

The aim of this work is to study stress biomarkers in office workers of the gas industry, allowing to take measures to prevent further “burnout” in advance.

Material and methods. The study included 40 office workers, who after taking the HADS test were divided into three groups according to their stress level. Some laboratory parameters were studied in them: lipid and glycaemic profile, hormonal levels of T₄, TTG, ACTH, DEA-SO₄, cortisol, magnesium level. In addition, work history, physical activity and night sleep duration among the participants were taken into account.

Results. The following findings were obtained in the study: stress levels increased with increasing length of employment, which was also associated with decreased night sleep duration and physical activity. Among the altered biochemical indices under prolonged exposure to stress are: increased T₄ free, decreased TTH, increased cortisol levels, decreased ACTH and DEA-SO₄, as well as signs of carbohydrate and lipid disorders.

Keywords: stress; office employees; gas industry; biochemical markers; stress indicators

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