Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of global mortality, and stress is a key modifiable risk factor, particularly in occupational settings such as banking. This study assessed the effect of stress on the cardiovascular system and the level of awareness among bank workers in Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 133 bank employees from five banks. Physical measurements including blood pressure, fasting blood sugar, and body mass index (BMI) were collected using standard instruments. A structured questionnaire was administered to assess lifestyle factors and awareness of cardiovascular risk factors. Chi-square tests were applied using statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 26 to determine associations at a 5% significance level.
Results: The prevalence of hypertension was significantly higher among males (33.8%) compared to females (10.7%), and among older age groups (>40 years, 73.3%) versus younger groups (21–30 years, 28.7%). Longer job tenure (>10 years) was associated with higher prevalence of hypertension (32.1%). Significant associations were found between hypertension and lack of knowledge, overtime work, BMI and alcohol use (p<0.05). Additionally, diabetes mellitus and obesity were linked to job tenure and snacking habits. However, some variables, such as blood glucose level, smoking and exercise, showed no significant association with hypertension (p>0.05).
Conclusions: The study concludes that occupational stress contributes significantly to CVD risk factors among bank workers in Makurdi. Awareness levels of cardiovascular risk factors were generally low, underscoring the need for targeted interventions on stress management and cardiovascular health
