Impact of night shift work on inflammatory cytokine levels and cardiovascular risk indicators in healthcare professionals

Abstract

Background: Night shift work plays a necessary role in healthcare but its health impacts on the long-term are not well understood. This comparative study is cross-sectional, which is why the investigators could not assess the effects of night shifts on cardiovascular risk and the effects that night shifts have on inflammatory cytokines of healthcare professionals in India.

Objective: To compare night shift and day shift workers in terms of inflammatory biomarkers (IL-6, TNF- P, CRP, IL-1Bet NF- y) and cardiovascular risk factors and determine their relationship.

Methods: A sample size of 240 participants (120-night shift workers and 120-day matched participants) that comprised of 3 tertiary hospitals was included. Cytokines and lipid profiles of fasting blood samples were measured. The PSQI and MCTQ were used to determine sleep quality and circadian disruption. Framingham risk scores of 10 years of cardiovascular risks were computed. There was statistical analysis involving t-tests, Mann Whitney U tests and Spearman correlations.

Results: Night shift workers showed significantly higher levels of IL-6 (5.82 vs. 3.14 pg/mL), TNF-α (12.47 vs. 7.63 pg/mL), CRP (4.31 vs. 2.18 mg/L), and IL-1β (3.67 vs. 2.29 pg/mL). They also experienced higher systolic blood pressure (131.6 vs. 121.3 mmHg), LDL cholesterol (128.9 vs. 114.2 mg/dL), triglycerides levels and higher Framingham risk scores (all p<0.001). There were strong positive relationships (r=0.49-0.65) between inflammatory markers and cardiovascular risk factors. Night shift duration was proved as an independent predictor by regression analysis.

Conclusion: Extended night shifts are linked with more inflammation and risk of cardiovascular consequences. Frequent surveillance and specific solutions are suggested, which could lessen the health hazards of healthcare employees.