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Updated: May 20, 2026
09:33
A Methodological Approach to Non-invasive Assessments of Vascular Function and Morphology
Published on: February 7, 2015
Shift work and vascular events: systematic review and meta-analysis
Manav V Vyas1, Amit X Garg, Arthur V Iansavichus
1Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada.
BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.)
|July 28, 2012
Summary
Shift work increases the risk of major vascular events like myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke. These findings highlight the need for public health and occupational medicine considerations regarding shift work schedules.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Medicine
- Cardiovascular Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Shift work is prevalent globally, affecting millions of workers.
- Previous research suggests a potential link between shift work and adverse health outcomes.
- Understanding the specific vascular risks associated with shift work is crucial for preventative strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically synthesize the existing literature on the association between shift work and major vascular events.
- To quantify the risk of myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, and coronary events in shift workers.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted across major bibliographic databases.
- Observational studies reporting risk ratios for vascular events in shift workers were included.
- Study quality was assessed, and random-effects models were used for meta-analysis.
Main Results:
- 34 studies involving over 2 million individuals were analyzed.
- Shift work was significantly associated with increased risk of myocardial infarction (RR 1.23) and ischemic stroke (RR 1.05).
- Coronary events were also elevated (RR 1.24), with higher risks for most shift schedules except evening shifts.
Conclusions:
- Shift work is demonstrably linked to an increased risk of major vascular events.
- These findings have significant implications for public policy and occupational health guidelines.
- Further research may explore specific mechanisms and targeted interventions for shift workers.
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