Shiftwork and leisure-time physical inactivity (LTPI) among U.S. workers.

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Shift work is prevalent and associated with adverse health outcomes.
• Physical inactivity may worsen health risks for shift workers.
• Understanding the link between shift work and physical activity is crucial for public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between shift work and leisure-time physical inactivity (LTPI).
• To examine potential sex differences in the relationship between shift work and LTPI.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional analysis of 33,983 US adults from the National Health Interview Survey.
• Self-reported work schedules and leisure-time physical activity levels.
• Prevalence ratios calculated using SUDAAN, stratified by sex.

Main Results:

• 27% of workers were shift workers; 26% were physically inactive.
• Shift work was associated with higher LTPI, particularly in women.
• Women working evening or night shifts had significantly higher LTPI compared to daytime workers.

Conclusions:

• Shift work may contribute to increased leisure-time physical inactivity, with a more pronounced effect in women.
• Interventions targeting physical inactivity in shift workers, especially women, are warranted.
• Reducing LTPI among shift workers could help mitigate associated health risks.