Investigating the link between long working hours and heart disease risk in the U.S.

Do long working hours increase the risk of cardiovascular disease mortality? Evidence from the U.S. National Health Interview Survey 1997-2015

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10932097

This study is looking into whether working long hours can lead to a higher risk of heart disease and is for anyone interested in how their job might affect their heart health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10932097 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research examines whether long working hours contribute to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality in the U.S. population. By analyzing data from the National Health Interview Survey collected between 1997 and 2015, the study aims to identify patterns and correlations between work hours and heart disease outcomes. The approach involves secondary data analysis, utilizing a comprehensive dataset that includes demographic information, working conditions, and health status. This investigation seeks to fill a critical gap in understanding how work-related factors may impact heart health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include U.S. workers who have reported long working hours, particularly those working over 55 hours per week.

Not a fit: Patients who are not currently employed or those who work part-time hours may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved workplace policies and health interventions aimed at reducing cardiovascular disease risk among workers.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research in European populations has shown a significant association between long working hours and increased CVD mortality, suggesting that similar findings may be expected in the U.S.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.