Shift Work and GERD: Systematic Review and Meta‑analysis
Summary
This meta-analysis reviewed 4 observational studies that compared digestive health in shift workers and day workers. In all studies, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms were assessed with questionnaires. When the results were combined, shift workers were more likely to report reflux symptoms than day workers. The association was strongest for rotating shifts, but night shifts also showed elevated risk. The pattern appeared in both male-only and mixed-gender study groups, suggesting the effect applies broadly across worker populations.
Why It Matters For Night Shift Workers and Night Owls
For people working nights, this research shows that reflux and heartburn are more common on shift schedules than on daytime ones. Rotating shifts, where hours change frequently, seemed to carry the highest risk. While the study didn’t test why, it points to reflux as a consistent health issue among shift workers. That means if you regularly experience heartburn on the job, it may be linked to your schedule rather than just individual habits — and it’s worth discussing with a healthcare provider.
Notes
Includes 4 primary studies; heterogeneity noted.