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Acute Effect of Night Shift Work on Endothelial Function with and without Naps: A Scoping Review
Paul D Patterson1,2, Jacob C Friedman1,2, Samuel Ding1,2
1Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
|October 14, 2023
Summary
Night shift work may affect endothelial function, but evidence is limited. Research on napping during night shifts and its impact on endothelial function is currently lacking.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Sleep Science
Background:
- Night shift work is prevalent and associated with health risks.
- Endothelial dysfunction is an early marker of cardiovascular disease.
- The impact of night shift work on endothelial function requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a scoping review of evidence on napping/sleeping during night shift work.
- To examine the impact of night shift work on non-invasive measures of endothelial function.
Main Methods:
- Scoping review methodology adhering to PRISMA-ScR guidelines.
- Searched five major databases (Medline, EMBASE, PsycInfo, Web of Science, CINAHL) from January 1980 to September 2022.
- Included observational and experimental studies examining endothelial function in night shift workers.
Main Results:
- Identified five studies (3 observational, 2 experimental) with 110 participants.
- Found limited evidence suggesting night shift work impacts non-invasive endothelial function indicators.
- Highlighted limitations: small sample sizes, diverse measurement protocols, and lack of research on napping benefits.
Conclusions:
- Current evidence on night shift work's effect on endothelial function is sparse and limited.
- There is a significant gap in research regarding the role of napping during night shifts.
- Further research is needed to understand napping's potential benefits for endothelial health in shift workers.
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