Higher Cortisol Content in Hair Among Long-Term Unemployed Individuals Compared to Controls

This study found that long-term unemployed individuals had higher cortisol content in their hair compared to employed controls, indicating increased cumulative cortisol exposure due to chronic stress. The study involved 31 unemployed and 28 employed participants, with hair segmental analysis conducted on 3 cm segments. Results showed significant differences in cortisol content in the first and second hair segments, representing the previous 6 months. The duration of unemployment correlated with higher hair cortisol levels, and BMI was also related to cortisol content, though it did not differ between groups. The study concluded that hair analysis is a valid method for assessing cumulative cortisol exposure, but its retrospective accuracy is limited to 6 months due to a wash-out effect.