Blood Pressure and Job Domains Among Hotel Housekeepers

Hotel housekeepers have challenging working conditions, putting them at risk for poor health such as hypertension. Despite their risks, few studies have measured their blood pressure (BP). The purpose of this study was to explore hotel housekeepers’ blood pressure and the associations between work and BP. Methods: A community engagement approach was used to recruit study participants. Data sources included questionnaires, and BP measurement. Results: Over 25% of the 39 hotel housekeepers reported hypertension diagnosis and/or antihypertensive medication used. Across the job domains, job satisfaction was correlated with diastolic BP, and workload was correlated with systolic BP. There were difference in blood pressure reading, diagnosis and job domains between workers affiliated with union and those with no union affiliation. Discussion: Hypertension is a major concern among this worker group and warrants further investigation. Studies targeting union and non-union workers are needed, given their differences. Researchers will likely benefit from a community engagement approach with hotel housekeepers