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Why a bad boss can be fatal

By Suzannah Ramsdale on Thursday 27 November 2008

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Marie Claire Health News: Stressed office worker

We've probably all dreaded going into work at one time or another because of an incompetent boss, and now there's proof that it can actually lead you to an early grave.

A study has found a strong link between poor leadership and life-threatening heart disease and heart attacks.

According to the research, a lack of support and feedback left staff feeling undervalued and highly stressed, which in turn led to unhealthy behaviours such as smoking.

The Swedish team of experts, who studied over 3,000 employed men for nearly a decade, found that if a person worked for a bad boss for four years or more the chance of developing a serious heart problem increased by 64%.

Previous research has shown that lousy bosses can also cause mental illness and drive many to drink.

'Feeling undervalued and unsupported can cause stress,' says Cathy Ross, from the British Heart Foundation. 'Which often leads to unhealthy behaviours such as smoking, eating a poor diet, drinking too much alcohol and not getting enough exercise - adding to your risk of developing heart problems.'

And for those of us who are suffering from the bad boss blues, the advice is to exercise.

'Being fit and active can give you the double benefit of busting work stress and boosting your heart health at the same time,' added Ross.