Long workdays linked to health risks

Working 12 hours a day, five days a week, exceeds 55 hours per week, which studies have shown increases the risk of serious health issues like stroke and heart disease.

Global health organizations warn of dangers

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) analyzed 37 studies on heart disease and 22 on strokes, involving over 1.6 million people. Their findings show a 35% higher stroke risk and a 17% higher risk of death from heart disease for those working 55 or more hours per week.

Mental and social effects also significant

Long working hours not only affect physical health but also mental and social well-being. Less time for rest, relaxation, and relationships, combined with constant stress, can lead to increased exhaustion and lower morale, as shown by studies on reduced working hours.

Shorter workweeks show benefits

A 2025 study in Nature Human Behaviour followed 2,896 employees across six countries who participated in four-day workweeks. On average, they worked five hours less per week, leading to less burnout, better mental and physical health, and greater job satisfaction.

Voluntary participation and self-reported data

While the study's results are promising, the data are self-reported, which may influence the outcomes. Still, more than 90% of the participating companies continued with the four-day workweek after the trial, indicating a positive reception of the model.