Working in night shift has become a common necessity for many people, but do you know how harmful it can be for your health? Research shows that working in night shift continuously can increase the risk of heart disease, lung cancer and other serious diseases. Apart from this, it can also reduce your life expectancy.
Study of Harvard Medical School about Night Shift
A study conducted by Harvard Medical School found that women who worked in night shift continuously for five years or more had higher mortality rate from heart disease. At the same time, the risk of death from lung cancer increased by 25% in women working in night shift for more than 15 years. This study was published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, in which the health data of about 75,000 nurses was analyzed for 22 years.
Working in night shift has the biggest impact on our circadian rhythm (body clock). The body is designed to work according to day and night, but when we work at night and sleep during the day, this natural cycle is disturbed. Due to this, the quality of sleep is affected, which can weaken the immune system and increase the risk of diseases like cancer.
In addition, night shift workers are more likely to have increased blood pressure and cholesterol, which can lead to cardiovascular diseases. Working at night for a long time also increases the risk of diabetes, obesity and mental health problems. Stress increases due to lack of sleep and irregular eating habits, which can lead to problems like depression and anxiety.
If you are working in night shift, then its damage can be reduced by adopting some measures. It is very important to sleep at the right time, have a balanced diet and exercise regularly. Keep the room dark while sleeping so that the level of melatonin hormone remains correct. Do not consume too much caffeine, as it can further affect sleep. Also, if possible, try to change your shifts so that your body gets back into a normal rhythm.
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People working night shifts may not be able to completely change their habits, but they can make small changes to take care of their health. If you have been working night shifts for a long time, get regular health checkups and consult your doctor. By adopting the right strategies, you can maintain your health and reduce the ill effects of night shifts.