Line of fire

Epidemiologist examines effects of stress on police officers

The nation's 700,000-plus police officers protect and save lives, but their own health and livelihood can be compromised by the chronic stress of their jobs, says an Arnold School of Public Health scientist.

USC epidemiology professor John Vena is collaborating on a study of 700 police officers and job-related stress. The study, sponsored by the Department of Justice and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, will measure psychological, physiological, and other measures of stress, disease, and mental dysfunction.

“We need to have a better understanding of how stress affects law enforcement officers with regard to their fatigue and performance,” Vena said. “We want to figure out what makes sense in regard to the length of shifts and rest periods in between shifts. It might be that some work schedules are better than others in terms of minimizing fatigue and the ability to respond effectively.”