Shift Work and Risk for Metabolic Syndrome Among Healthcare Workers
Summary
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined 12 studies of healthcare workers published up to 2021, comparing day staff with those on night or rotating shifts. Across samples ranging from 42 to 738 participants, most studies found that shift workers were more likely to meet the criteria for metabolic syndrome — a cluster of conditions including high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, unhealthy cholesterol levels, and excess abdominal fat. When results were combined, shift workers were more than twice as likely to have metabolic syndrome compared to day workers.
Why It Matters For Night Shift Workers and Night Owls
For nurses, doctors, and other healthcare professionals, this research shows that shift schedules can significantly increase the risk of developing metabolic syndrome, which in turn raises the chances of heart disease and diabetes. The findings highlight why regular health screenings, supportive workplace policies, and recovery time are essential in shift-heavy jobs. For individuals, it reinforces that protecting routines around sleep, nutrition, and activity isn’t just about feeling better day-to-day — it’s about long-term protection against serious chronic disease.
Notes
Open access healthcare‑sector focus.