Overnight shift to be classified as 'probable' cancer cause
My mom is a nurse who works sixteen-hour night shifts. According to several studies, higher incidences of breast and prostate cancer are found in night workers. This may be due to the disruption of the circadian rhythm, as well as the production of melatonin, a chemical produced overnight while we sleep that helps keep cancer at bay. Light impedes melatonin synthesis; on the other hand, while melatonin is available as a supplement, it's not recommended to take it for long periods because doing so may interfere with the body's natural production of it. Those who do swing shift may be at even higher risk, since the body doesn't really get to adjust to a schedule one way or the other. Insomniacs and others who do not work but may not get enough sleep may also be at risk.
Speaking of not enough sleep, I'm operating on five hours from last night and I'll have four tonight. Argh.
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