Working irregular hours during youth could have negative health effects in the future

A recent study conducted by a researcher at New York University suggests that young adults who work irregular shifts may be at higher risk for developing sleep problems, as well as physical and mental health issues later in life. The study used data from over 7,300 participants in the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth-1979 and looked at employment patterns starting at age 22 and their association with various health outcomes at age 50.

The results of the study showed that participants who worked night shifts or irregular hours in their 20s slept less and had worse quality of sleep compared to those who worked a standard 9 a.m.-5 p.m. schedule. By the time these workers reached age 50, they were more likely to report feelings of depression. Additionally, those with volatile work schedules, such as working evening or night hours, or having daily hours that constantly changed, were more likely to report poor health in middle age. The study also found that Black participants were more likely to have these types of schedules.

Study author Wen-Jui Han stated in a press release that work, which is meant to provide resources for a decent life, has now become a vulnerability to a healthy life due to the increasing instability in work arrangements. The study was published online in the journal PLOS One.