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Identifying Risk and Protective Factors for Shift Work Sleep Disorder: Insights from UK Biobank Night Shift Workers
Jürgen Degenfellner1,2, Susanne Strohmaier1, Magdalena Zebrowska1
1Department of Epidemiology, Center of Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
Clocks & Sleep
|March 26, 2025
Summary
Shift Work Sleep Disorder (SWSD) affects many with irregular schedules. Certain demographics and personality traits, like sociability, were linked to lower SWSD risk in UK night shift workers.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Sleep Medicine
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Shift Work Sleep Disorder (SWSD) is a prevalent condition impacting up to 48% of individuals working irregular schedules.
- SWSD is characterized by insomnia or sleepiness due to shift work, excluding other causes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the risk factors and correlates of Shift Work Sleep Disorder (SWSD).
- To identify demographic and lifestyle factors associated with SWSD in night shift workers.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional analysis of 10,787 night shift workers from the UK Biobank.
- Multivariable-adjusted logistic regression models were used to determine SWSD correlates, with risk factors preselected from existing literature.
Main Results:
- Being 'Asian or Asian British' or 'Black or Black British', male sex, and higher scores in sociability, warmth, and diligence were associated with reduced odds of SWSD.
- No significant associations were found between SWSD and chronotype, alcohol consumption frequency, smoking, or job tenure.
Conclusions:
- Findings highlight the need for targeted interventions and workplace policies to address SWSD.
- Further research is recommended to understand the mechanisms behind these associations and improve shift work tolerance.
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