A new study has suggested that working 52 hours or more per week may alter brain structure.
The study, published on Tuesday in the journal Occupational & Environmental Medicine, found notable changes in the brains of people who overwork, particularly in regions tied to emotional regulation and executive function, such as working memory and problem-solving.
Overworking is a blend of physical and emotional strain, compounded by insufficient rest and recovery.
For the study, researchers examined 110 South Korean healthcare workers, categorising them into “overworked” and “non-overworked” groups.
The 32 participants in the overworked group clocked 52 hours or more per week, while the 78 others worked standard hours.
The study said those working longer hours each were significantly younger, had spent less time in work, and were more highly educated than those doing standard hours.
To assess differences in brain volume, the researchers used voxel-based morphometry (VBM), a neuroimaging technique that identifies and compares regional differences in levels of gray matter, and atlas-based analysis, which uses pre-defined references to identify and label structures in images like brain scans.
Findings from the comparative analysis revealed that individuals in the overworked group exhibited notable structural changes in the brain.
One key area affected was the middle frontal gyrus, associated with working memory, cognitive functions, and language processing. In fact, this region was found to be 19% larger in those who worked longer hours.
Other regions that showed differences included the superior frontal gyrus, which is linked to decision-making and planning, and the insula, which is crucial for emotional processing and self-awareness.
Joon Yul Choi, the study’s co-author, suggested that the brain changes might be partially reversible but emphasised the need for workplace policies that limit excessive hours.
However, Frank Pega, another researcher, cautioned against broad conclusions, noting the study’s small sample size and focus on healthcare workers.
“More studies in different populations are needed,” said Pega.
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