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Shiftwork as a Risk Factor for Depression: A Pilot Study
1130 DeSoto Street, Rm A725, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA.
Summary
Shiftwork is linked to a higher prevalence of major depressive disorder (MDD), especially in women. Longer shiftwork exposure may increase the lifetime risk of developing MDD.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Psychiatry
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Shiftwork is common and associated with various health issues.
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a significant public health concern.
- The relationship between shiftwork and MDD requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the association between shiftwork exposure and the prevalence of MDD.
- To investigate differences in MDD prevalence between genders among shift workers.
- To examine the impact of shiftwork duration on the lifetime risk of MDD.
Main Methods:
- A geographically based random telephoning strategy identified 98 current and former shift workers (40-65 years old).
- Telephone-administered psychiatric assessments included the SCID for lifetime MDD incidence and CES-D for current depressive symptoms.
- The Standard Shiftwork Index (SSI) was used to assess shiftwork exposure.
Main Results:
- An unexpectedly high prevalence of MDD was identified in current and former shift workers.
- Women shift workers exhibited a higher rate of MDD compared to men.
- Increased duration of shiftwork exposure (up to 20 years) suggested a higher lifetime risk of MDD.
Conclusions:
- Shiftwork is associated with a significant prevalence of MDD, impacting both current and former workers.
- Gender differences exist in MDD prevalence among shift workers, with women being more affected.
- Prolonged shiftwork exposure may contribute to an increased lifetime risk for developing MDD.