Shift Work and Cancer Risk: Study on Melatonin
Bucharest — May 16,2024 —
This article investigates the potential risks of shift work,specifically its connection to increased cancer risk,as discovered in a new study. The research explores the role of melatonin, a naturally occurring hormone, and its effects on DNA repair among night-shift workers; where, how, and with what impact. The study shows promising results; though, further research is needed to explore the long-term effects as well as further understand how melatonin offers a layer of protection. Read on to find out.
Shift Work and Cancer Risk: A New Study on Melatonin
For many, shift work is a necessity, but emerging research suggests it may carry health risks. A recent study explores the link between shift work and an increased risk of cancer, delving into the potential protective role of melatonin.
The Link Between Shift Work and Cancer
The causes of cancer are multifaceted. According to the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), lifestyle factors such as alcohol consumption, tobacco use, obesity, poor nutrition, lack of exercise, and infections are notable risk factors. The International Agency for Cancer Research has also identified shift work as a potential risk factor.
Did You Know?
Shift work can disrupt the body’s natural circadian rhythm, affecting hormone production and perhaps increasing the risk of various health issues, including cancer.
Researchers are now focusing on how hormones might protect shift workers from cancer.One area of interest is the role of DNA damage due to oxygen radicals. This damage leads to the production of a biomarker called 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHDG). Repair enzymes remove this biomarker, and it is excreted in urine. Lower levels of 8-OHDG excretion are associated with increased oxidative stress,a condition often seen in shift workers.
Melatonin: A Potential Protective Hormone
Melatonin, often called the “sleep hormone,” is produced in the pineal gland and regulates the body’s day-night rhythm.Light exposure affects melatonin production; darkness stimulates its release, promoting sleep, while daylight inhibits it, promoting wakefulness. Disrupted melatonin production in shift workers may contribute to an increased cancer risk.
Pro Tip
Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, even on days off, can help regulate melatonin production and mitigate some of the negative effects of shift work.
A Canadian study published in BMJ Journals investigated whether melatonin supplementation could prevent the decline in 8-OHDG excretion among night shift workers. The study examined the context of how hormone shift workers could protect against cancer.
Researchers have now found out which hormone shift workers could protect against cancer.
The study: Melatonin and DNA Repair
The study involved 40 night shift workers without sleep disorders. Participants took melatonin supplements before bed for four weeks. Researchers analyzed urine samples to measure 8-OHDG concentrations, with higher concentrations indicating improved DNA repair.
Half of the participants received a placebo,while the other half received three milligrams of melatonin one hour before thier planned bedtime,after their night shift meal. Data was collected during consecutive day and night work phases at the beginning and end of the study. Sleep data was tracked using wrist devices, and participants collected urine samples during their daily sleep and subsequent night shift.
Study Results: Promising but Preliminary
The results showed that melatonin substantially increased 8-OHDG excretion in urine. During daily sleep, excretion increased 1.8 times. There was no significant difference in concentration during the subsequent night shift. The researchers concluded that melatonin improved the repair capacity of oxidative DNA damage in night shift workers.
However, the researchers emphasize that further extensive studies are needed to examine the effects of different melatonin doses and the long-term effects on shift workers. If confirmed, melatonin could not only improve sleep but also reduce cancer risk.
Melatonin led to a significant increase in the 8-OHDG excretion in the urine. During daily sleep, the excretion was increased by 1.8 times.
According to the study,melatonin improved the repair capacity of oxidative DNA damage to night shift workers.
