Year: 2008
Type: dissertation
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Long-term night shift work has been associated with multiple cancer sites, including breast, prostate, colon and endometrial. The mechanism for this effect is hypothesized to include the hormone melatonin; where increased light at night exposure during shift work reduces melatonin production and decreased melatonin levels are associated with increased cancer risk. In addition, physical activity has been shown to reduce cancer risk and existing laboratory studies indicate it has the potential to influence melatonin levels. Methods: A cross-sectional study of light intensity exposure, physical activity and melatonin levels was conducted among 61 rotating shift nurses at Kingston General Hospital. Light intensity exposure was measured using a light intensity data logger and melatonin concentrations were measured from urine and saliva samples, collected over a 24-hour period. Physical activity was assessed from a study questionnaire and one-day diary. Results: A statistically significant inverse association between light exposure and urinary
Author: Anne Grundy
Language: English
Subfield: Endocrine and Autonomic Systems
Field: Neuroscience
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2185219255