New research suggests there is a link between high pressure jobs and heart disease risks in women.

The research found that heart disease risks in women increased if they felt under pressure at work.

The study looked at the heart health of more than 12,000 women working as nurses.

June Davison, cardiac nurse at the British Heart Foundation, said:

“Feeling under pressure at work means stressed employees may pick up some unhealthy bad habits and add to their risk of developing heart problems.

“Pressurized workers may reach for cigarettes, snack foods and alcohol to make themselves feel better.

“If you feel under pressure you should try and tackle it in a positive way and get active during work hours. Using the stairs and walking some of the way to work could help act as a stress buster and boost heart health too. We know this is a problem and have produced our Think fit! Think well! guide to address mental well-being for employees.”

The study was published by Occupational and Environmental Medicine.