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. 2017;1(2):00008.
Epub 2017 Oct 6.

Shift Work and Sleep: Medical Implications and Management

Shazia Jehan  1 , Ferdinand Zizi  1 , Seithikurippu R Pandi-Perumal  2 , Alyson K Myers  3 , Evan Auguste  4 , Girardin Jean-Louis  1 , Samy I McFarlane  3
Affiliations

Shift Work and Sleep: Medical Implications and Management

Shazia Jehan et al. Sleep Med Disord. 2017.

Abstract

The primary occupation of a worker can play an important role in achieving good sleep, as well as good physical and mental health. Shift Work Sleep Disorder (SWSD) is a condition that results from working atypical shifts (i.e. other than the typical 9 am to 5 pm schedule). Individuals who manifest SWSD usually complaint of trouble sleeping, excessive sleepiness and fatigue which interfere with overall functioning. Misalignment of circadian timing system results in undesirable health consequences. Among shift workers, good sleep is essential for efficient functioning. Disturbed sleep is associated with anxiety, depression, poor physical and mental health and eventually, leads to impaired quality of life. The economic burden of undiagnosed, under-and untreated shift work is high. The healthcare workers and policymakers can play a pivotal role in dealing with this issue by educating the public and providing them with adequate privileges to perform their work.

Keywords: Circadian rhythm; Comorbidities; Shift work; Sleep; Stress.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflicts of Interest: The authors declared that there are no conflicts of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Shift work, associated pathology and comorbidities.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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