Shiftwork and Cardiovascular Disease: Review of Disease Mechanisms
Reviews on Environmental HealthPublished 1 January 2000
Anders Knutsson, Henrik Bøggild
Citations219
SJR quartileQ1
SJR score0.96
SNIP1.38
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TL;DR
A conceptual model is discussed, in which three main shiftwork pathways to CHD are postulated--social problems, behavioral change, and disturbed circadian rhythm.
Abstract
This paper reviews the main findings concerning mechanisms explaining the increased risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) in shiftworkers. We discuss a conceptual model, in which three main shiftwork pathways to CHD are postulated--social problems, behavioral change, and disturbed circadian rhythm. Social problems that are associated with shiftwork might lead to stress. Significant shiftwork-related behavioral problems are smoking and unhealthy food habits. Disturbed circadian rhythm might result in sleep deprivation. Unphysiologic timing of physical activity and food intake in relation to circadian rhythms is another possible explanation for the negative impact on the cardiovascular system.
Keywords
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