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Published on: August 8, 2019
Is Shift Work Sleep Disorder a Risk Factor for Metabolic Syndrome and Its Components? A Systematic Review of
Arpita Shah1,2, Arifa Turkistani1, Kanita Luenam1,3
1Department of Family Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences and Psychology, Fairfield, California, USA.
Night shift work is linked to metabolic syndrome and its components like obesity and hypertension. This review highlights the need for integrated health management for shift workers beyond sleep disorders.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Endocrinology
- Public Health
Background:
- Shift work sleep disorder affects night shift workers due to circadian rhythm disruption.
- Night shift work is common and has potential health implications.
- Metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components are associated with shift work.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review studies on the association between shift work and MetS and its components.
- To review the underlying pathophysiology linking shift work and MetS.
- To inform future research and clinical management strategies.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review following PRISMA guidelines.
- Searched PubMed for relevant studies.
- Included 18 observational studies for qualitative synthesis after applying eligibility criteria.
- Assessed study quality using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.
Main Results:
- Found statistically significant associations between shift work and MetS.
- Confirmed links between shift work and obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and insulin resistance.
- Identified 11 high-quality studies for the final review.
Conclusions:
- Shift work is significantly associated with metabolic syndrome and its individual components.
- There is a need for comprehensive treatment plans for shift workers addressing both sleep disorders and chronic metabolic diseases.
- Further investigation into the pathophysiology is warranted.
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