Night Shifts, Sleepless Nights, and Women’s Hearts: The Hidden Health Toll No One Talks About

International Women's Day: Shift work has become an integral part of modern society, with many industries relying on employees who work outside the traditional 9-to-5 schedule. While shift work ensures that essential services continue round the clock, it also brings significant health challenges, particularly for women. Among these challenges, insomnia and an increased risk of heart disease are major concerns.

Dr. Arup Halder, a pulmonologist at CMRI Hospital, explains the impact of disrupted sleep cycles, stating, “When the sleep cycle gets disrupted, the body's normal functioning is interrupted. One such example is shift workers. The consequences can be dire; insomnia and poor quality of sleep have been associated with an increased risk of hypertension, heart disease, and metabolic conditions.”

Poor sleep quality in shift workers often leads to breathing problems, excessive daytime sleepiness, and a higher risk of developing obstructive sleep apnoea. These conditions have been linked to long-term lung complications, making it imperative to recognise and address the health risks associated with irregular work schedules. Dr. Halder suggests preventive measures such as maintaining a structured sleep schedule, leading an active lifestyle, and reducing caffeine or stimulant intake before bedtime.

Dr. Anjan Siotia, a cardiologist at BM Birla Heart Hospital, points out the cardiovascular risks associated with shift work. He explains, “Shift work can significantly disrupt the body’s natural circadian rhythm, leading to chronic sleep deprivation and increasing the risk of heart disease. According to a study at NIH, shift work is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, including coronary heart disease (CHD) and hypertension. Working three to eight nights per month increases CHD risk by about 35%.”

Irregular work hours can trigger stress responses in the body, elevating cortisol levels, increasing blood pressure, and promoting inflammation—all major contributors to cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, insomnia, a common sleep disorder among shift workers, exacerbates stress levels and negatively impacts metabolism. This can lead to obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol, all of which are significant risk factors for heart disease.

Dr. Siotia also points out that mental health is closely intertwined with physical health. Insomnia and chronic sleep deprivation not only heighten cardiovascular risks but also impact mental well-being, creating a vicious cycle of stress and health deterioration.

To combat these risks, both experts stress the importance of adopting better sleep hygiene and a heart-healthy lifestyle. Dr. Halder and Dr. Siotia recommend the following measures:

Maintain a Consistent Sleep Schedule: Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day can help regulate the body's internal clock.

While both men and women face health risks due to shift work, studies suggest that women may be more vulnerable. Hormonal fluctuations, caregiving responsibilities, and societal expectations often compound the effects of disrupted sleep schedules, making it even more essential for women in shift work to prioritise their health.

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