Scientists: Night Work Is Harmful to Health
Research shows that night work increases the risk of dementia by 36% and is also linked to cardiovascular diseases and cancer. The WHO has classified shift work as probably carcinogenic. Israeli doctor Amit Green advises biphasic sleep and sleep hygiene.
Recent studies show that shift work and chronic sleep disruption are associated with an increased risk of dementia, cardiovascular diseases, metabolic disorders, and some forms of cancer. In one study, scientists analyzed brain scans of 40,000 people and identified individuals with impaired cerebrospinal fluid clearance function; those with the most pronounced damage were found to be at higher risk of dementia years later. Swedish scientists followed 13,000 shift workers and found that shift work in middle age is associated with a 36% increased risk of dementia. A meta-analysis of 35 studies showed that reducing sleep to 4.5 hours per night for three or more nights activates the immune system, accompanied by inflammatory processes. The International Agency for Research on Cancer under the WHO has classified night shift work as 'probably carcinogenic to humans.' Dr. Amit Green, a psychologist and somnologist at the Assuta clinic network, explains that light is the main factor setting the biological clock and offers advice on sleep hygiene, including biphasic sleep and limiting screens before bed.