Improving cardiovascular risk prediction by accounting for psychosocial stressors in the workplace

Status Ongoing
Start date 2024
Location Quebec
Researcher Trudel, Xavier
Associated institution CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Centre and Université Laval
Summary

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide, making accurate risk prediction essential for prevention. The Framingham risk score is widely used, but Canadian studies suggest it may be less accurate than expected, especially over short time frames. In addition, important work‑related risk factors — such as psychosocial stressors and long working hours — are not included in current tools, even though their negative effects on heart health are well documented.
This project aims to evaluate the performance of the Framingham score over 10 years and determine whether adding work‑related stressors improves cardiovascular risk prediction. Analyses will rely on the PROQ and CARTaGENE cohorts, supplemented with medical administrative data. The project will also explore machine‑learning methods to enhance prediction models.
Ultimately, this research could help refine clinical guidelines and develop more comprehensive tools that better reflect real‑world working conditions, supported by a participatory approach involving clinicians and patients.

Themes
  • Chronic diseases
  • Environment and lifestyle
  • Public health and epidemiology
Data types
  • Biochemical and hematological data
  • Physical and cognitive measures
  • Questionnaire data