Preliminary Research Links Long Working Hours to Brain Structural Changes

Recent preliminary research indicates that extended working hours may lead to significant alterations in brain structure, particularly in regions responsible for emotional regulation and executive functions like working memory and problem-solving skills. Published online in Occupational & Environmental Medicine, the study highlights that individuals working 52 or more hours weekly show notable differences in brain volume compared to those with standard work hours.

The study leveraged structural brain volume analysis through MRI scans, focusing on healthcare workers with high weekly hours. Data from the Gachon Regional Occupational Cohort Study (GROCS) included 110 participants after eliminating those with incomplete data or poor-quality scans. Findings revealed that those with longer working hours were typically younger, more educated, and had spent less time in work.

Neuroimaging analyses, including voxel-based morphometry and atlas-based analysis, identified increases in volume within specific regions such as the middle frontal gyrus, superior frontal gyrus, and the insula. These brain regions play vital roles in attention, planning, decision-making, emotional processing, and self-awareness. Notably, the middle frontal gyrus showed a 19% volume increase among long-hour workers.

While these findings do not establish causality, they suggest that overwork might induce neuroadaptive changes linked to occupational stress, which could impact cognitive and emotional health. The authors emphasize that further research, especially longitudinal studies, is essential to understand whether these structural brain changes are a consequence or a predisposing factor of extensive working hours.

The study underscores the importance of addressing overwork within occupational health policies to prevent potential neurobiological and psychological repercussions. Up-to-date, this pioneering research brings attention to the neurological implications of excessive work commitments, calling for workplace interventions to promote better mental health and brain health.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-hours-brain-preliminary.html