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Shift work and cancer: state of science and practical consequences
1Occupational Medicine & Health Protection Department BASF SE, Ludwigshafen, Germany.
Arhiv Za Higijenu Rada I Toksikologiju
|June 26, 2012
Summary
Shift work involving circadian disruption is probably carcinogenic. Recent studies remain inconclusive, suggesting potential cancer risks for shift workers, though evidence is limited and inconsistent.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Epidemiology
- Carcinogenesis
Background:
- The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified shift work with circadian disruption as Group 2A (probably carcinogenic to humans) in 2007.
- This assessment focused on epidemiological evidence, particularly for breast and prostate cancers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To scrutinize the epidemiological basis of the IARC's 2007 conclusion on shift work and cancer.
- To evaluate new findings and their practical consequences for shift workers.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a literature search, including studies cited by IARC and recent research on shift work and cancer.
- Analyzed eleven new studies published since the IARC assessment.
Main Results:
- New studies yielded inconclusive results, with significant heterogeneity in exposure metrics and outcomes.
- Published evidence is suggestive but not definitive for a link between night work and breast cancer.
- Evidence for other cancers and all cancers combined is limited and inconsistent.
Conclusions:
- It cannot be ruled out that shift work, including night work, may increase cancer risk.
- Minimizing health risks is possible through optimized shift schedules and targeted health promotion programs for shift workers.
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