Night‑Shift Work, Genetic Risk, and Type 2 Diabetes in the UK Biobank
Summary
This UK Biobank study examined over 270,000 participants to assess the relationship between night-shift work, genetics, and type 2 diabetes. Compared to day workers, those on rotating or occasional night shifts had higher odds of diabetes, with risk rising as the number of monthly night shifts increased (>8/month OR 1.36). Interestingly, permanent night workers did not show significantly elevated risk, suggesting that irregular or rotating schedules may be more disruptive. Genetic risk for diabetes did not interact with shift work exposure — both high- and low-genetic risk groups were similarly affected.
Why It Matters For Night Shift Workers and Night Owls
This study highlights that rotating and irregular night shifts raise diabetes risk, regardless of family history or genetic predisposition. The findings suggest that the body’s circadian disruption — especially from alternating schedules — is a key driver of risk. For shift workers, this means even those without a strong genetic background can be vulnerable. Practical steps like stabilizing shift schedules, aligning meal timing with circadian rhythms, and regular metabolic health monitoring may help reduce long-term risks.
Notes
Large UK Biobank analysis.