BEIJING, April 5 (Xinhua) -- In 2017, 361 Chinese public security officers have passed away on public service, among which 246 cases were due to overwork, according to the Ministry of Public Security.

The average age of the 361 officers was 43.5, half of the average lifespan in China, the ministry said in a statement.

Research showed that the front-line policemen work 13 to 15 hours a day, which makes overwork a major concern, said the statement.

The ministry has increased pensions to officers' families and improved insurance system. It also pays officers' medical costs and provides support for their children.

The ministry highlighted the importance of using more scientific and technological tools to lower the workload of officers.